PENMON FAMILY HISTORY AND RELATED TOPICS

My great grandparents, Richard and Elizabeth Jenkins moved to live in Blaenau from Aberystwyth around 1902. Richard, or Jenks as he was known, worked as a Caretaker at Ysgol Y Moelwyn until the early 1940's. My mother was born here, above a shop which was then known as Bradleys.
On this page I hope to present a bit of the history of the town and the surrounding area.
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BLAENAU FFESTINIOG

CONTENTS
Chronology
Blaenau Higher Elementary School Teachers
1901 Heads of household Census - Maenofferen
Oakeley Quarry War Memorial 1914 - 1919
Ysgol y Genethod, Maenofferen
Maenofferen Infants School c. 1950
Centenary of Blaenau Railway
Ffestiniog Festivals & Photographs
Casgliad Haf Madoc Wilson
Sarah Roberts; Descendant of King of Wales
Tanlan & Tan Y Fron
Griffith Edwards, 99 High Street - Argentinian connections
John Elias Jones - Tailor to David Lloyd George
John Russell
John and Catherine Griffiths
Robert and Jane Lloyd, Dolgarreg Ddu
Anne Davies, 120 High Street
Humphreys Family, Manod Road
Thomas Henry & Sarah Ann Roberts
David Griffith Williams, Albion House, Church Street
36 Dorvil Street, Ffestiniog
Robert Owen Jones, born 1870 Llanrwst
Edward Owen Wynne Morris
The Williams Family, Geufron Terrace
"A History of the Cambrain Coast League" by Mel Thomas
Pengwern Arms Hotel - featuring Pengwern Cymunedol
Wynnes Arms, Manod
William Gladstone passes through Festiniog, 1855
John Ruskin, critic, passes through Festiniog, 1876
Y Rhedegydd, Hydref 23, 1947

THE GREAT WAR 1914/18
IN MEMORIAM

Would you like to record details of a relative
who served King and Country in The Great War?
If so, please click here.

High Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog. 1890's above, 2009 below

CHRONOLOGY
Diolchiadau i Vivian Williams, Blaenau Ffestiniog

1765; Diffwys is the first quarry in Blaenau and is given a 34 year lease.

1813; David Lloyd, Excise Officer, was 2nd Ride at Festiniog. He exchanged stations with John Tulley, who was stationed at Llanrwst.

1818; November, Capel Bethania, Independant is founded. It's congregation grew, and new daughter chaples had to be built. Hyfrydfa was the last to be built.

1819; Capel Bethesda M.C. is founded. 1826 - first Chapel built 1848 - extensions made to the buildings 1869 - present chapel built

1836; The Ffestiniog Railway was opened.

1850; The Cwmorthin tramway was opened.

1856 - 8th August. Newtown's celebrated Welsh harpist and violinist, Mr John Roberts and his daughter Mary Ann gave a concert at Ffestiniog Town Hall. A local wrote; They gave splendid entertainment in vocal and instrumental music. Miss Roberts excelled any female we have ever had in these parts both with her vocal and instrumal performance

1860/70; 25 slate quarries in operation in area.

1864; Capel Tabernacl, Calvinistic Methodist, established.

1869;
Eglwys Jerusalem, Independent Chapel,
also called Fourcrosses is established.
Built by William Willams and Griffith Owen, designed by Y Parchedig Thomas Thomas, Glandwr.
Cost £2,500, including the minister's house.

Some past Ministers;
Pryce Howells
1871 - 1900
Dr E. Lewis Evans
1926 - 34
Brython Davies
1936 - 46
J. Elwyn Davies
1950 - 55

It was extended in 1878 and electricity
and heating added 1902-05.
The organ was purchased in 1904
when a recital was given
by T. Westlake Morgan, Bangor.
It held a congregation on 900,
and has a vestry and small vestry
in the cellar under the chapel.

Hydref 1947
JERUSALEM - Cynhelir rihyrsal nos Fercher am 7 o'r gloch yng nghapel Jerusalem er paratoi gogyfer y recordio gan y B.B.C. o'r canu cynulleidfaol nos Iau am 7.30 o'r gloch.

1873; Blaenau is described as the City of Slates as the commodity is used both inside and outside houses.

1879: Capel Hyfrydfa, Manod is founded.

1879; The first standard gauge railway at Blaenau Ffestiniog

1880; Capel Brynbowydd, Independant, is founded.

1881; Eglwys Engedi opened on the 15th May

1885; The earliset known version of football played in the town.

1889; Blaenau Ffestiniog Football Club is established.
(Click here to vist the club's webpage on www.stiniog.com)

1890's. Llechwedd slate quarry; top, slate dressing mill; bottom, pay day

1894; Gill's Imperial Series ; Geography.
Recapitulatory Notes. Llanberis, Bethesda and Ffestiniog are renowned for their slate quarries; silver and copper are also found.

1898; National Eisteddfod held at Blaenau.
The Crown was won by R. Gwylfa Roberts (Subject; Charles o'r Bala)
The Chair was won by R. Hughes (Elfyn) (Subject; Awen)

1899; Capel Pisgah, Maenofferen was built. Capel y Bedyddwyr Annibynnaidd

Photo by kind permission of Glenys Lloyd

The Chapel was originally built for local slate miners and has been tastefully and sympathecially converted into a guest house by Glenys and her husband Doug. Click here for access to their detailed webpage and booking details. Tel 01766 831 285. glen@bandbinsnowdonia.co.uk

1900; Blaenau is a prosperous town, with over 4,000 people working in the slate quarries, supplying roof cover throughout Europe. Its population is around 11,000.
         Blaenau consists of many chapels, numerous brass bands, choirs and drama groups.
         The whole community is Welsh speaking.
         The town's streets are filled with slate miners returning home from work around 4pm as their shift finished.
         Quarrymen come from all the surrounding villages to work in the quarries.

This photo was taken in the Seion Baptist Chapel's vestry in 1911.
It shows the actors in a drama.

1914; The Great War began and the slate industry would never return to its former glories. Lloyd George encouraged quarrymen to go to war, and the industry was not considered to be a reserved occupation. Their engineering skills were needed for the war.

1914 - 18

HOGIA' STINIOG
Please click here to visit this remarkable webpage at www.stiniog.com
Listed here are the men that lost their lives
in the First World War, and who had links
with the Ffestiniog area.
In memory of Robert Christmas Jones,
10 Maenofferen Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Died of wounds, 9th October 1917,

1918; The War ends, and those who survived, returned to find the industry almost dead, as indeed were some of the men who had worked there.

1920's; The quarries recovered somewhat, as housing needs increased nationally.

Second World War - National Gallery pintings were moved to Manod quarry for their protection and safety.

1930 Royal Automobile Club Guide and Handbook;
Population 8,143. Early closing Thursday. Licensing hours 10.30am - 3.00pm, 5.30pm - 9.00pm.
Hotel ; Queen's. Agents (R.A.C. - assistance with breakdown) Cambrian Motors, Tel. 11.

Town was kept alive by the Tanygrisiau hydro-electric scheme.

Trawsfynydd nuclear power station provides more work for Blaenau people.

c1960 Moelwyn Mountaineering Club formed

Photo courtesy of Sian Roberts

The Moelwyn Mountaineering Club was started by Sian's brother John Ellis Roberts. John became head warden of the Snowdon National Park, a post held by him for 36 years. John received the M.B.E. for the rescue work he undertook.
Pictured here are A. Jones, Dei, Sian, Mr Evans, Mrs Daynes, Aled, Mr Daynes, John Ellis Roberts, Gary Bloor, Tony Rogers, Edgar, Brian, David Smith and Brian Rushworth.

1964; Meirion Jones formed a male voice choir which was to become one of the most famous in Wales - Cor Y Brythoniaid.

1965; Cor Y Brythoniaid successfully competes in the Llan Ffestiniog Jubilee Eisteddfod.

1966; Cor Y Brythoniaid embark on a sustained period of competitions.This resulted in 26 competitions, 19 firsts and 3 seconds up to 1974

1969; Cor Y brythoniaid first major success at the Flint National Eisteddfod, singing the 23rd Psalm.

1971; Cor Y Brythoniaid have further success at the Bangor National Eisteddfod

1971; Moelwyn Male Voice Choir win their section at the Bangor National Eisteddfod.

1972; Cor Y Brythoniaid win first prize for the fifth time at the Butlins Eisteddfod, competing against choirs from Wales and England.

1975; Cor Y Brythoniaid awared a Diploma from the Academy of Culture by a panrel of Hungary's most eminent musicians, as the choir travel behind the 'iron curtain'.

1977; Cor Y Brythoniaid have success at the National Eisteddfod

Trawsfynydd closes, and soon, 100 Welsh speaking families leave the area.

1979; Centenary celebrations of the Blaenau Railway.

Celfyn Evans, Martin Williams, Elaine Bloor, Paula McKinley, Christine Bloor and Elina Hughes. More details in the feature 'Centenary of Blaenau Railway', below, supplied by Sian Roberts.

1980; Cor Y Brythoniaid tour the West Coast of America.

1982; Cor Y Brythoniaid were awarded a gold disc by the Sain Record Group for their sales that year.

c 1985. Father Deiniol relocates the Welsh Orthodox Church from his own home in Manod to the abandoned St Martha Anglican church in Ffestiniog. The denomination was established more than 20 years ago, creating a spiritual home for the faith in the heart of the community. Eglwys Holl Saint Cymru.

1985; Cor Y Brythoniaid have success at the National Eisteddfod

1990; Cor Y Brythoniaid tour the East Coast of America

1992; Cor Y Brythoniaid adjudged the HTV Choir of the Year.

1994; Cor Y Brythoniaid attend the Interceltique Festival at Lorient

1995; Cor Y Brythoniaid sing for the Foreign Trade Delegation in Brussels

1996; Cor Y Brythoniaid attend the Interceltique Festival at Lorient

1997; Cor Y Brythoniaid are Stenna National Choral Winners

2001; Cor Y Brythoniaid have success at the National Eisteddfod.

2002; Cor Y Brythoniaid tour Southern Ireland

2004; Cor Y Brythoniaid tour Bruge / Ghent

2005; Cor Y Brythoniaid have success at the National Eisteddfod.

COR Y BRYTHONIAID
Click here to visit their website

All Cor Y Brythoniaid photos and chronology appear here
courtesy of Mr Huw Trefor Jones, Secretary

Higher Elementary School, Blaenau Ffestiniog

This photo was kept by my late grandmother, Sarah Michel Roberts nee Jenkins.
It portrays members of the teaching staff.
Can you help by naming the teachers please?
If so, please contact me at mail@penmon.org

Manod Murder 1898

Thomas Jones of Amlwch and Mary Bruton were pedlars and travelled North Wales selling their wares, and in 1898 were in Ffestiniog.
Before dawn on a Monday morning in March 1898, quarrymen walking to work found the body of Mary Bruton, aged 33, lying in the snow next to the magazine. Police quickly arrested her lover, a hawker called Thomas Jones. He confessed to murdering Mary during a drink-inflamed quarrel. He said Mary had insisted on taking the wrong path over the mountains and they had lost their way. Jones was hanged at Caernarfon gaol that August.

Y Llofruddiaeth yn
Ffestiniog

Y CARCHAROR WEDI EI GONDEMNIO
I Farwolaeth

Dydd Mawrth, Gorphenaf 12fed, 1898, yn Assizes Sir Feirionydd, y ganhaliwyd yn Nolgellau, o flaen y Barnwr Wills, rhoddwyd Thomas Jones ar ei brawf ar y cyhuddiad o lofruddio Mary Briwtwn, corph marwol yr hon a gafwyd yn y Manod Mawr, ger Ffestiniog, ar yr 2fed o Fawrth, 1898.
Ymddengys i'r dyn a'r ddynes adael Ffestiniog yn hwyr Nos Fawrth, am Llanrwst fel y dywedent. Yn y boreu cafwyd hyd i gorph y ddynes, ynghyd arwyddion eglyr fod 'scuffle' wedi cymeryd lle yn yreira. Cymerwyd y dyn, yr hwn a haerai mai lladd ei hun wnaethai y druanes, i'r ddalfa, a dygwyd theithfarn o Lofruddiaeth Wirfoddol yn ei erbyn yn Llys y Trengholydd.
Traddodwyd annerchiad nerthol yn ei amddffyniad gan Mr Ellis Jones Griffith, A.S., ei far-gyfieithiwr, ond wedi aur o ystyriaeth, dychwelodd y rheithwyr gyda rheithfarn o;

Lofruddiaeth Wirfoddol

a dedfrydwyd y carcharor i farwolaeth. Yn ddiweddarach symudwyd ef i Garchar Caernarfon.

1901 census, Maenofferen, Blaenau.
Head of households
(Street numbers included where annotated on the census)

High Street;
1. George Penry, 51, Publican, born Ffestiniog
2. Lock up shop
3. Henry Davies, Clothiers Manager, born Llangedwyn
4. David Jones, 52, Coal Carter, born Llansilin
5. William Williams, 26, Grocery Manager, born Ffestiniog
20 Owen Edwards, 54, slate quarrier, born Llanuwchllyn
21 Thomas Jones, Manager Boot Shop, born Denbigh

22 R.B. Davies, painter, born Llanelltyd
23 Margaret Owen, 45, widow, born Pentredwr
Public House, Griffith Owen, 31, Publican, born Ffestiniog
Grocer Shop, William Powell, 42, born Maentwrog
Butcher Shop, Richard Jones, 54, butcher, born Llangefni

40 Gwen Thomas 64, widow, caretaker, born Beddgelert
Confectioner Shop, Jane Williams 59, Baker and Confectioner, born Ffestiniog
John Edwards, 51, Asst Supt Prudential Ins Office, born Brynswncyn
51 David Owen, 54, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Thomas Davies, 60, Bill poster, born Llanrwst
David Davies, 25, Barber of hair, born Caernarfonshire

53 Richard Thomas, 58, Clothier, born Rhosybol
54 Thomas Jenkins, 67, painter, born Abermule
55 Ellen Thomas 57, widow, housekeeper, born Rhosybol
56 Mary Jones 56, widow, housekeeper, born Corris
57 Owen Pugh 63, slate quarry labourer, born Llannerchymedd
58 Edward Rowlands 44, Slate loader, born Trewern

59 Catherine Jones, 64, widow, housekeeper, born Ffestiniog
59 William Jones, 65, stonemason, born Caernarfonshire
60 John Hughes 30, slate quaryy rockman, born Arthog
61 David E Jones, 44, slate quarrier, born Caernarfonshire
62 David Roberts, 63, steam engine fitter, born Llanrwst
67 David Jones 28, Woollen draper, born Penrheber
67 David Morris, 56, slate quarry rockman, born Llancilin
69 John Pritchard, 59, Breadman, born Ffestiniog
69 (cellar) William Hughes, 57, slate quarrier, born Caernarfonshire

70 Toy Shop, John Ll. Jones, 44, Grocer and Tea Salesman, born Dyffryn
70 (cellar) Robert Hughes 31, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
71 Jane Hughes, 37, dress and mantle maker, born Llanddewi
71 (cellar) Rees Roberts 30, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
72 Elias Davies 44, cabinet maker, born Llandrillo
73 Hugh Roberts 54, slate quarry rockman, born Anglesey
74 William Griffith, 57, slate inspector, born Caernarfonshire
75 Richard Griffith, 52, book saler, born Abergynolwyn

76 Kate Roberts, 35, wife born Anglesey
77 Eleanor H Jones, 25, dressmaker, born Talybont
77 (cellar) Griffith Jones, 47, slate quarry rockman, born Eglwysbach
Gwen Williams 76, widow, born Ffestiniog
John Jones 55, grocer, born Denbighshire

Robert Jones, 48, slate quarry labourer, born Caernarfonshire
98 David Jones, 66, slate quarrier, born Llanecil

99 Griffith Edwards, 52, slate quarrier, born Caernarfonshire, Jane Edwards 50, wife, John G. Edwards 30, slate quarrier, Griffith Caradog, 13, slate quarrier, Margaret I. 17, apprentice milliner, Robert E. 14, apprentice ironmonger, all born in Ffestiniog

Andrés E Romero, (Andrew) has contacted us from Argentina.
He is a descendant of Griffith Edwards.
Details appear in the family section below

100 J.H. Wooding, 29, grocer, born Nantmawr
101 David H. Jones, 29, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
102 Henry Williams 60, stonemason, born Caernarfonshire
103 William Lewis, 49, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

104 Ellis G Roberts, 39, slate quarrier, born Caernarfonshire
115 Evan Evans 58, slatequarry rockman, born Llwyngwril
116 Jesse Roberts, 34, foreman at slate loaders, born Llanrwst
117 Isaac Davies 32, barber hairdresser, born Dolgelley
118 Griffith G. Jones, 41, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
119 David Davies 44, slate quarry tap manager, born Glyn Ceiriog
120 Elizabeth Jones 42, groacer, born Bala

Penygelli, Rees Roberts 36, slate quarrier, born Caernarfonshire
144 Robert R Hughes, 48, newspaper reporter, born Caernarfionshire
145 Richard Jones, 33, draper, born, Montgomery
146 Robert Jones 46, slate quarry rockman, born Caernarfonshire
143 David Williams, 68, joiner, born Montgomery
146 John Owen, 68, slate quarrier, born Maentwrog
143 Hugh W. Thomas 35, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

152 David G Jones, 46, tea salesman and grocer, born Ffestiniog
153 Richard Evans, 30, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
154 John Jones, 61, slate loader, born Mallwyd
155 Laura Evans, 65, widow, born Trawsfynydd
156 Owen P. Ellis, 48, slate quarry miner, born Ffestiniog
155 William Lewis 46, general labourer, born Caernarfonshire

150A John Davies, 26, slate quarry miner, born Ffestiniog
150B Robert Roberts, 43, baker, born Caernarfonshire
103 Martha Williams 55, widow, born Caernarfonshire
102 Richard Owen, 29, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

101 Robert O. Jones, 31, slate quarry labourer, born Llanrwst, Jane M. Jones, 25, wife, Catherine, 7 Annie 4, Lizzie 7 months, all born Ffestiniog.

An enquiry was received about this family from a granddaughter, in "Llafar Bro" covering the Blaenau Ffestiniog area. See also the entry on Robert Owen Jones, born Llanrwst 1870, below. KD.

99 Richard Jones, 26, slate quarry rockman, 26, born Ffestiniog

98 David Lewis, 53, slate quarryman labourer, born Llanidloes
97 John Williams, 25, slate quarry miner, born Corwen
96 Elizabeth Williams 39, dressmaker, born Ffestiniog
Penygelli, John Thomas, 55, slate quarry rockman Anglesey
Penygelli, Robert Lewis, 49, oneline braker at quarry, born Dyffryn
150 Samuel S. Jones, 44, grocer and draper, born Llanberis

Penygelli,William O. Hughes, 41, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Penygelli, Anne Hughes, 62, widow, born Ffestiniog
Penygelli, Laura Hughes 69, laundress, born Dolwyddelen
2 Penygelli Tce, Jane Wyatt, 44, widow, born Llanrwst
1 Penygelli Tce, William Hughes, 30, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
3 Penygelli Tce, Robert Jones, 31, slate quarry rockman, born Trefonen

4 Penygelli Tce, Robert Williams, 36, slate quarry rockman, born Capel Garmon
5 Penygelli Tce, Rees Jones, 28, slate quarry rockman born Dyffryn
6 Penygelli Tce, William Kerfoot, 45, general labourer, born Acrefair
7 Penygelli Tce, Henry Jones, 34, slate quarry labourer, born Gwytherin
8 Penygelli Tce, John Williams, 27, slate quarry labourer, born Llandecwyn
9 Penygelli Tce, Robert Rowlands, 52, slate quarry rockman, b. Trawsfynydd
10 Penygelli Tce, Richard Roberts, 52, slate quarry rockman, b. Llanddwywae

11 Penygelli Tce, Henry Griffiths, 62, milkman, born Penrhyn
120 Richard Hughes, 25, slate quarrier, born Merionethshire
118 Hannah Jones, 58, shirtmaker, born Bontddu
117 Margaret Griffiths, 54, widow, born Arthog
11 William Davies 25, slate quarry labourer, born Llangwna
Gelli, Robert Griffith, 45, slate quarrier, born Llandwrog

Gelli Isaf, Evan Edwards, 65, slate quarry rockman, born Llanycil
Bronddwyryd, Evan W. Jones, 37, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Bronddwyryd, Robert Roberts, joiner carpenter, born Pwllheli
7 Bronddwyryd, Griffith O. Hughes, 34, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
6 Bronddwyryd, Richard Evans, 56, slate quarry rockman, born Croesoswallt
5 Bronddwyryd, John H. Owen, 36, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
4 Bronddwyryd, David Williams, 52, slate quarry rockman, born Dolgelley
1 Bronddwyryd, Robert Jones, 32, slate quarry rockman, born Pwllheli

3 Bronddwyryd, David Williams, 57, slate quarry miner, born St George
2 Bronddwyryd, David Williams, 38, slate quarry rockman, born Cemmaes
Frongoch Cottage, Richard Thomas, 34, slate quarry rockman, b. Llanbrynmair
Frongoch Cottage, Thomas O.Williams, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Frongoch Cottage, Robert O. Jones, 46, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Back High St.,Samuel Williams,31, slate quarry miner, born Ffestiniog

Gaswork, Thomas Hughes 42, gas stoker, born Amlwch
Bridge Cottage, Humphrey Jones, 31, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Bridge Cottage, John Glyn Owen, 49, pump engine fireman, born Pentraeth
1 Eifon Tce, Thomas Roberts, 27, slate quarry miner, born Pwllheli
1A Eifon Tce, Thomas Parry, 34, slate quarry labourer, born Caernarfonshire
2 Eifon Tce, Isaac Roberts 42, slate quarry rockman, born Llanrhaeadr

3 Eifon Tce, Ellis Jones, 43, slate quarry labourer, born Dolgelley
4 Eifon Tce, Thomas Williams, 64, slate quarrier, born Dolwyddelen
4 Eifon Tce, Thomas Williams (jnr), 23, slate quarrier, born Dolwyddelen
6 Eifon Tce, David Roberts, 28, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
2 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, Laura Owens, 36, widow, born Ffestiniog
4 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, John Jones, 52, slate quarry loader, born Tywyn
3 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, Herbert Lloyd, 36, slate quarry rockman, born Ffestiniog

5 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, Mary Evans 45, widow, born Llandecwyn
6 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, William W Williams, 30, slate qarry plater, b. Aberwheeler
7 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, Robert Williams, 60, District Council fitter,b. Llannor
8 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, Hugh Jones, 44, slate quarry labourer, born Llandanwg
9 Lr C. Bowydd Rd, William Pritchard, 48, slate quarry labourer, b. Niwbwlch
1 C. Bowydd Rd, Jane Williams, 60, widow, born Bontnewydd
2 C Bowydd Rd, John Owen, 57, slate inspector, born Llanrwst

3 C Bowydd Rd, Thomas Jones, 33, lodger, Clergyman CofE, born Llanllechid
4 CBowydd Rd, Lewis Thomas 57, slate wharf Inspector, born Ffestiniog
5 C Bowydd Rd, Jane Jones, 67, widow, born Talsarnau
6 C Bowydd Rd, David Jones, 47, slate quarrier, born Llangollen
7 C Bowydd Rd, Ann Roberts, 67, widow, born Llangydwaladr
7 C Bowydd Rd, John Roberts, 38, slate quarrier, born Malltraeth

8 C Bowydd Rd, Margaret Jones 63, widow, born Beddgelert
9 C Bowydd Rd, Thomas Jones, 54, slate quarry Manager, born Llanfechell
10 C Bowydd Rd, Edw Cefni Jones, 29, Baptist Minister, born Llangefni
11 C Bowydd Rd, John H Roberts, 56, slate quarry rockman, born Ysbytty
12 C Bowydd Rd, Griffith Roberts, 66, coal merchant, born Ffestiniog
13 C Bowydd Rd, William Hughes, 48, slate quarry rockman, born Ffestiniog
14 C Bowydd Rd, John Williams, 56, slate quarry rockman, born Trawsfynydd

15 C Bowydd Rd, Robert Lewis, 56, Wesleyan Minister, born Wyddgrug
1 C Bowydd Rd, Hugh Jones, 30, slate quarry rockman, born Clynnog
2 C Bowydd Rd, John Jones, 45. house painter, born Llanddoget
16 C Bowydd Rd, Maggie Evans, 29, Salvation Army Officer, born Cardiganshire

16 C Bowydd Rd, Morris Griffiths, 34, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog. His wife Mary, 31 was born in Aberystwyth. Their family, all born in Ffestiniog were, Johny, 5, Catherine 3 and 10 month old David.
17 C Bowydd Rd, Catherine Griffiths, 75, widow, living on her own means, born Nefyn

Richard Griffith from the U.S.A. writes;
I believe Catherine Griffiths, 75 years of age in 1901 on your website, at 17 Cwm Bowydd road, is my Great Great grandmother, and Morris, next door, a great uncle.
Please see the item on Richard's great, great grandparents, John and Catherine Griffiths, below, which includes a link to Richard's own family history website. KD.

Bryn Offeren, R.O. Jones, 49, Solicitor, born Portmadoc

14 C Bowydd Rd, Owen Jones, 40, slate quarry engineer, born Minffordd
13 C Bowydd Rd, Thomas Hughes, 32, slate quarry rockman, born Llansanan
12 C Bowydd Rd, Robert Roberts, 66, slate quarry carpenter, born Llangerniw
11 C Bowydd Rd, Richard Willams, 57, slate quarry rockman, born Penrhos
10 C Bowydd Rd, William Williams, 72, slate quarry rockman, born Ysbytty
9 C Bowydd Rd, Sydney Jones, widow 64, born Ffestinog
9(?) C Bowydd Rd, J. W. Stephen, 33 slate quarry miner, born Corris
8 C Bowydd Rd, W.P.Williams, 47, slate quarry engineer, born Ffestiniog
7 C Bowydd Rd, John Barlow, 48, slate quarrier, born St Asaph

6 Bowydd Rd, Morris Edwards, 58, slate quarrier, born Bala
5 Bowydd Rd, Daniel Daniels, 47, slate quarry labourer, born Cwm Rheidol
4 Bowydd Rd, Robert Owen, 50, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
3 Bowydd Rd, John R Davies, 49, slate quarry manager, born Ffestiniog
Brynhyfryd Cottage, Hugh Roberts, 27, slate quarry labourer, born Penygroes
Bodenyd, Ellen Williams, 66, widow, born Pentrefoelas
2 Bowydd Rd, Daniel Thomas, 32, baker, born Bala

1 Bowydd Rd, David J Williams, 31, slate quarrier, born Talysarn
1 Bowydd Rd, Mary Griffiths 60, widow, born Nefyn
5 Gladstone Tce, William Ellis, 52, slate quarry rockman born Gronant
4 Gladstone Tce, Owen Roberts, 40 slate quarry labourer, born Denbighshire
3 Gladstone Tce, William T. Owen, 45, slate quarry rockman, born Caernarfonshire
1 Gladstone Tce, David T Davies, 40, wood sawyer, born Llansanan
2 Gladstone Tce, John Parry 26, slate quarrier, born Trawsfynydd

Fronwynion, William Roberts, 46, slate quarrier born Harlech
1 Bron View, Owen D Thomas, 43, slate quarrier born Ffestiniog
3 Bron View, W.R. Jones, 30, slate quarry miner, born Llanfrothen
4 Bron View, Robert R Jones, 46, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
4 Bron View, Edward Jones, 25, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Bron View, Thomas Jones, 60, slate quarry rockman, born Capel Garmon

Bron View, Edward Jones 45, slate quarrier, born Maentwrog
Bron View, Edwin Roberts, 36, slate quarry rockman, born Llanrwst
Griffith Jones, 47, slate quarry Manager, born Ffestiniog
Bron View, Thomas Davies, 49, slate quarry labourer, born Nantglyn
Bron View, Thomas D. Thomas, 41, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

Bron View, Jane Davies 53, widow, born Denbighshire
Brynhyfryd Cottage, John Hughes, 55, slater and platerer, born Betws y Coed
Brynhyfryd Cottage, John Williams, 57, farmer, born Dolbenmaen
7 Glynllifon St, Charles Jones, 52, slate quarry engineer, born Llanrhaeadr
9 Glynllifon St, John James, 56, boot and shoe maker, born Pwllheli
11 Glynllifon St, John Penny, 43 slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Glynllifon Hotel, James Roberts, 30, hotel keeper, born Ffestiniog

10 Glynllifon St, Catherine Jones, 58, widow, born Bangor
Back Glynllifon St, Ellis Owen, 39, general carter, born Penmachno
13 Glynllifon St, Robert Evans, 36, slate quarrier, born Llanrug
12 Glynllifon St, J.W. Jones, 60, slate quarry rockman, born Namor
15 Glynllifon St, Morris Jones, 67, slate quarry rockman, born Penmorfa

16 Glynllifon St, Robert Edwards, 58, slate quarry rockman, born Carnarvonshire
14 Glynllifon St, William S. Roberts, 25, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Back Glynllifon St, Morris Robert, 38, slatequarry miner, born Ffestiniog
Back Glynllifon St, Owen Llooyd, 40, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
Back Glynllifon St, William Griffiths,23, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
17 Glynllifon St, Morris V. Davies, 39, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

18 Glynllifon St, David Jones, 33, slate quarry rockman born Penrhyn
19 Glynllifon St, Richard Hughes,55, slate quarry labourer, born Trefdraeth
21 Glynllifon St, William Thomas, 39, slate quarry rockman, born Cefnmawr
23 Glynllifon St, Robert Jones, 58, slate quarrier, born Bethesda
25 Glynllifon St, Richard Griffiths, 31, slate quarry miner, born Pwllheli
27 Glynllifon St, Owen Jones, 55, slate quarry packer, born Towyn

29 Glynllifon St, Edward Jones, 34, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
31 Glynllifon St, Robert Jones, 46, slate quarrier, born Merionethshire
32 Glynllifon St, Owen S. Williams, 51, slate quarry labourer, born Ffestiniog
33 Glynllifon St, George Evans, 27 slate quarry labourer, born Rhiw
20 Glynllifon St, Robert A. Edwards, 36, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
22 Glynllifon St, John Hughes, 43, slate quarrier, born Amlwch

24 Glynllifon St, Laura Roberts, 47, widow, born Ffestiniog
26 Glynllifon St, John E. Morgan, 37, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
28 Glynllifon St, John Hughes, 58, slate quarry rockman, born Llangollen
2 Newboro St, William J. Evans, 28, watchmaker, born Carnarvon
Oswald House, Martha Davies, 57, draper, born Llanyblodwel
6 Newboro St, William G. Griffiths, 33, refreshment keeper, born Llangollen
Newboro Office, John T. Williams, 54, general accountant, born Bethesda
12 Newboro St, William Evans, 50, attendance officer for school board, b Beddgelert
Newboro St, Henry Jones, 70, slate quarry labourer, born Capel Garmon

16 Newboro St, Robert Pierce, 45, slate quarry rockman, born Dolbenmaen
18 Newboro St, John Hughes, 50, wood sawyer, born Llansanan
20 Newboro St, John Roberts, 59, slate quarrier, born Llandwrog
9 Newboro St, William J. Williams, 48, slate quarrier, born Beddgelert
7 Newboro St, Rowland Hughes, 33, photographer, born Ffestiniog

7 Newboro St, Ellen Williams 40, general servant, born Penrhyn
9 Newboro St, Jane Rowlands, 55, wife, born Pwllheli
5 Newboro St, Mary Jones, 56, wife, born Llanarmon
3 Newboro St, Owen R. Owen, 26, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
1 Newboro St, Edward Jones, 60, slate quarry labourer, born Eglwysbach
1 Maenofferen, Margaret Owen, 46, wife, born Maentwrog
2 Maenofferen, Kate Ll. Jones, 18, housekeeper, born Ffestiniog
3 Maenofferen, Richard Pugh, 61, slate quarry rockman born Corris
4 Maenofferen, Ellen Morgan, 64, wife, born Llandwrog
5 Maenofferen, Hugh Roberts, 36, slate quarrier Betws y Coed

6 Maenofferen, Evan H. Roberts, 32, slate quarrier, born Barmouth
6 Maenofferen, William Williams, 33, stonemason, born Llanllyfni
7 Maenofferen, David W. Williams, 30, slate quarrier, born Bethesda
8 Maenofferen, William Roberts, 42, joiner, born Trawsfynydd
9 Maenofferen, Richard S. Williams, 35, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
10 Maenofferen, William Ellis, 40, slate quarry fitter, born Llangwm
11 Maenofferen, Gwen Jones, 61, housekeeper, born Llanenwyn
12 Maenofferen, Robert H. Roberts, 64, slate quarrier, born Betws y Coed

13 Maenofferen, Owen R. Williams, 28, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
13 Maenofferen, Robert Jones, 24, slate quarrier, born Carmel
14 Maenofferen, Thomas W. Owen, 32, slate quarrier, born Talsarnau
16 Maenofferen, Thomas Williams, 49, slate quarry rockman, born Penygroes
17 Maenofferen, Owen Jones, 46, slate quarry labourer, born Llangefni
17b Maenofferen, William Hughes, 60, no ccupation recorded, born Llansantffriad
17c Maenofferen, Evan Williams, 36, slate quarry rockman, born Llanfihangel

16 Maenofferen, John Thomas, 39, quarry engineer, born Ffestiniog
18a Maenofferen, John E. Roberts, 30, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
18b Maenofferen, David Jones, 35, slate quarrier, born Dolwyddelen
19 Maenofferen, Griffith Williams, 35, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
21 Maenofferen, Richard Roberts, 48, slate quarrier, born Dyffryn
23 Maenofferen, Catherine Richards 59, wife, born Aberystwyth
25 Maenofferen, William Hughes, 49, slate quarrier, born Harlech

27 Maenofferen, John Doyle, 34, bread maker, born Ireland
31 Maenofferen, Griffith Parry, 34, slate quary rockman, born Beddgelert
33 Maenofferen, Ann Roberts, 57, wife, born Bala
20 Maenofferen, Robert Williams 59, grocer born Ffestiniog
22 Maenofferen, Owen Williams, 30, slate quarrier, born Montgomery
24 Maenofferen, Elizabeth Jones, 50, wife, born Ffestiniog
26 Maenofferen, Robert Williams, 30, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

28 Maenofferen, Robert Williams, 39, slate quarrier, born Carnarfonshire
30 Maenofferen, Richard Jones, 56, milkman, born Montgomeryshire
32 Maenofferen, William Lewis, 54, slate quarry rockman, born Ffestiniog
34 Maenofferen, Hugh Parry, 65, stone mason, born Rowen
34 Maenofferen, Barabara Parry, 84, living on own means, born Llandeglan
35 Maenofferen, Margaret Lloyd, 31, wife born Ffestiniog
20 Maenofferen, Ann Evans, 51, wife, born Anglesey

Cwmbowydd, Margaret Thomas 43, wife, born Llanfrothen
26 Back M.Offeren, William Williams, 36, slate quarrier, born Pentrefoelas
1 Fair View, William Williams, 56, joiner carpenter, born Llaniestyn
2 Fair View, Henry Edwards, 25, slate quarrier, born Esgairgeiliog
3 Fair View, Margaret Rowlands, 39, wife, born Carnarfonshire

4 Fair View, Ann Jones, 38, wife, born Dolgelley
5 Fair View, Owen Hughes, 39, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
4 Fair View, Evan Evans, 45, slate quarry rockman, born Llannor
1 Mills Row, Robert Jones, 49, slate quarrier, born Glyn Ceiriog
2 Mills Row, Jane Edwards, 71, wife, born Trawsfynydd
3 Mills Row, Hugh Owen, 75, slate quarry labourer, born Ffestiniog
4 Mills Row, John Davies, 61, slate quarry labourer and plasterer, born Llanynis
5 Mills Row, Hugh Jones, 29, slate quarry engineer, born Cerrigydrudion
6 Mills Row, Griffith Jones, 38, slate quarrier, born Penygroes

7 Mills Row, William Owen, 37, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
7 Mills Row, Sarah Thomas, 65, wife, born Llanfrothen
1 Oxford St, Robert Jones 41, slate quarrier, born Llanfrothen
2 Oxford St, Evan H. Jones, 36, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
3 Oxford St, John Penny, 61, slate quarrier, born Llanegil
4 Oxford St, Robert Jones, 39, slate quarrier, born Llangernyw
5 Oxford St, Humphrey Jones, 31, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog

6 Oxford St, John Hughes, 52, slate quarrier, born Llangollen
7 Oxford St, Elizabeth Williams, 79, wife, born Tregarth
1 Picton Tce, Griffith Jones, 50, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
2 Picton Tce, William E. Jones, 37, slate quarrier, born Penmachno
3 Picton Tce, Richard Parry, 45, slate quarrier, born Bangor
4 Picton Tce, Owen W. Roberts, 31, tea salesman, born Ffestiniog
5 Picton Tce, Thomas Williams, 68, slate quarrier, born Holywell

6 Picton St, William Griffiths, 54, slate quarry rockman, born
3 Picton St, Elizabeth Edwards, 34, wife, born

Meirion Terrace

1 Meirion Tce, Robert Jones, 60, slate quarrier, born
3 Meirion Tce, David Jones, 58, tailor, born
4 Meirion Tce, Mary Jones 46, wife, born

2 Meirion Tce, Richard Jenkins, 41, employed for Singer Sewing Machines,
Elizabeth M. 38, wife, William R 10, Mary 9, Anne 7, Sarah M 3 all born Aberystwyth

Richard and Elizabeth were my great grandparents, Sarah M. was my grandmother
click here to read about the family

4 Blaenafon, Job James, 41, foreman railway porter, born Whittington
5 Blaenafon,William R. Davies, 41, railway station master, born Glyn Ceiriog
Slate of School, John Cadwaladr, 37, schoolmaster, born Ffestiniog
Police Station, Stephen Owen, 35, Sergeant of Police, born Llanidloes

Maenofferen Hotel, Moses R. Jones, 44, Hotel keeper, Lizzie Owen, 26, housekeeper, Charlotte Thomas, 26, waitress, Jennie Thomas, 21, chambermaid, all born Ffestiniog, Maria J. Williams, cook, born Llanrwst, William Jones, 34, groom & horse driver, born Dolgelley, Arthur Patterson, 24, billiard marker, born Liverpool.

1 Springfield, Thomas Davies, 34, slate quarry smith, born, Pwllheli

2 Springfield, Cadwaladr Jones, 41, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
3 Springfield, Richard G. Jones, 40, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
4 Springfield, Hugh Williams, 31, slate quarrier, born Harlech
2 Jersulam, James Wyatt, 42, slate quarrier, born Bristol
1 Jersulam, Thomas Ellis, 68, slate loader, born Llanfyllin

1 Offeren Cott, Robert Jones, 27, slate quarry labourer, born Rhuthin
2 Offeren Cott, William Jones, 57, slate quarrier, born Llandwrog
3 Offeren Cott, Edward Griffiths, 32, slate quarrier, born Trawsfynydd
1 Blaenafon, Ellis Davies, 49, slate quarrier, born Ffestiniog
2 Blaenafon, Robert Owen, 39, slate quarrier, born Llanllyfni
3 Blaenafon, Elizabeth Evans, 53, wife, born Ffestiniog

6 Blaenafon, Evan Stoddart, 36, slate quarry miner, born Ffestiniog
7 Blaenafon, Jane Morgan, 60, wife, born Penrhyn
8 Blaenafon, Humphrey Morgans, 68, slate quarrier, born Maentwrog
Back Blaenafon,William D. Williams, 30, slate quarrier, born Dolwyddelen
7 Meirion Tce, Robert R. Pritchard, 60, slate quarrier, born Trefriw
6 Meirion Tce, Robert Roberts, 61, slate quarry manager, born Ffestiniog
5 Meirion Tce, Hugh Roberts, 49, slate quarrier, born Bala

Back Glynllifon St, Mary Jane Owen, 33, wife born Glamorganshire
19 Maenofferen, Richard Hughes, 20, engine driver, born Ffestiniog
Bryn Eirw, Morgan E Phillips, 31, Higher Grade schoolmaster, born Tonrefail
68 High Street, John Morris Evans, 27, railway porter, born Ffestiniog
1 L Cwym Rd, David Williams, 37, slate quarry engine driver, born Portmadoc
(NB the following premises are just listed as shown)
Oxford St, 3 buildings
Mills Rd, 1 building
Surgery, in occupation
Monumental Works, in occupation
Tailor Shop, in occupation
Infants School,
Elementary School for Boys
Elementary School for Girls,
Higher Grade School for Girls,
Higher Grade School for Boys
Intermediate

End of 1901 Maenofferen district.

Other Streets in Blaenau;
1 Dorvil St, William Williams, 34, labourer quarry, born Ffestiniog
1a Dorvil St, Hannah S Griffiths, 21, wife, born Llanidloes
1b Dorvil St, John M. Williams, 23, plasterer, born Darowen
1 Dorvil St, Ellis Jones, 39, draper, born Maentwrog
2 Dorvil St, David Roberts, 63, slate quarryman, born Ffestiniog

3 Dorvil Street, Robert E Roberts, 64, slate quarryman, Sarah, wife 56, Evan, 29, Assistant Town Clerk, Elizabeth A 27, John Lloyd, 25 University Student, Sarah, 18, Elementary School Teacher, Humphrey Ll, 14. All born Ffestiniog. Boarding with the family was Ivor H Eames, born Llanfairfechain.

See also family feature on Blaenau below - Descendant of King of Wales

4 Dorvil St, Winifred E Hughes, 41, widow, housekeeper, born Dolwyddelen
5 Dorvil St, John Evans, 48, blacksmith, born Liverpool
6 Dorvil St, Edmund Ll. Powell, 45, slate quarryman, born Ffestiniog
7 Dorvil St, Harriet Morris, 45, wife, born Llandudno
7a Dorvil St, Evan Williams, 28, rockman slate quarry, born Garn

8 Dorvil St, Owen Jones, 45, coal merchant, born Anglesea
9 Dorvil St, Owen Jones, 52, blacksmith, born Llangefni
10 Dorvil St, John Parry, 63, slate quarryman, born Trawsfynydd
11 Dorvil St, Ellen Jones, 48, widow, laundress, born Holyhead
12 Dorvil St, Sarah Owen, 31, wife, born Llanrwst
13 Dorvil St, Jeremiah Hughes, 48, rockman slate quarry, born Llanrwst

14 Dorvil St, John Griffiths, 48, labourer slate quarry, born Llangwm
15 Dorvil St, William H. Hughes, 36, rockman slate quarry, born Llanfairtalhaearn
16 Dorvil St, William Morris, 50, slate quarryman, born Dolwyddelen
17 Dorvil St, Owen Owens, 57, slate quarryman, born Ffestiniog
18 Dorvil St, Ellen Evans, 68, widow, born Garn
19 Dorvil St, Richard Jones, 45, slate quarryman, born Bethesda

20 Dorvil St, David Owen 25, slate quarryman, born Caernarfonshire
21 Dorvil St, John Owen, 44, rockman slate quarry, born Pwllheli
22 Dorvil St, Thomas Parry, 58, slate packer wharf, born Llanuwchllyn
23 Dorvil St, Robert Jones 36, storekeeper quarry, born Dyffryn
24 Dorvil St, John J. Owen, 55, joiner slate quarry, born Montgomeryshire
25 Dorvil St, John Williams, 44, rockman slate quarry, born Cricieth

26 Dorvil St, Isaac Lewis, 59, contractor, born Conway
27 Dorvil St, David Lewis, 44, rockman slate quarry, born Trawsfynydd
28 Dorvil St, Owen Jones, 56, rockman slate quarry, born Llanbedr
28 Dorvil St (back), Ann Rowlands 48, monthly nurse (?), born Ffestiniog
29 Dorvil St, Thomas Jenkins, 25, house painter, born Llangollen

29 Dorvil St, John D Williams, 29, rockman slate quarry, born Garn
30 Dorvil St, Edward Williams, 52, slate quarryman, born Darowen
31 Dorvil St, Richard Parry, 46, slate quarryman, born Pentir
32 Dorvil St, John Hughes, 53, slate quarryman, born Llanfechell
33 Dorvil St, Margaret Parry, 61, widow, born Flintshire
34 Dorvil St, David Morris, 50, joiner slate quarry, born Clwyd Vale

35 Dorvil St, David Jones, 39, plate layer, born Capel Garmon
36 Dorvil St, Hugh Owen, 39, rockman slate quarry, born Aber

36 Dorvil Street, 1901.
Hugh Owen, married 39, working as a rockman, born in Aber, Caernarvonshire. His wife Hannah was 32 and born in Penmachno. The couple had 5 children, all born in Ffestiniog.
Margaret E. age 6, Harri Iorwerth, 5, John Ivan, 4, Rhisiart Emrys 2, and Mary Eluned, 1.

Please see item below on 36 Dorvil Street. KD

37 Dorvil St, Elizabeth Roberts, 56, widow, born Rowen
38 Dorvil St, Robert W. Owen, 49, school slate maker, born Llandwrog
39 Dorvil St, Edward Jones, 71, slate quarryman, born Llanllechid
40 Dorvil St, George Roberts, 47, slate quarryman, born Llangollen

The 1901 census details noted here, only give the names of the heads of households. Many women are shown as 'wife', suggesting that their husbands were living away from home on census day.
If you would like to see the complete list of residents for a particular house shown here, please contact me onmail@penmon.org

OAKELEY QUARRY
WAR MEMORIAL

FOR GOD
KING & COUNTRY
GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN
THAN THIS
THAT A MAN LAY DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS

ROLL OF HONOUR
EMPLOYEES
OF THE OAKELEY SLATE QUARRIES CO. LTD
1914 - 1919

Arthur Vaughan Owen
John Thomas Jones
Gwalchmai Owen
John W. Jones
William E. Jones
Thomas W. Jones
Robert R. Davies
William P. Parry
William C. Jones
Richard Davies
Evan Owen
David D. Jones
Elias Jones
William Griffiths
Thomas O. Hughes
Francis Hughes
William Hughes
William Ellis
Robert O. Jones
Robert Gwaenydd Jones
Ben Lewis
Richard R. Thomas
William H. Thomas
Robert Hughes

R.A.M.C.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W..F
R.W.F.
S.W.B.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.W.F.
R.A.M.C.
S.W.B.
R.W.F.
SH. FORs.
W.R.
NORd F
R.W.F.
NORd F
R.A.M.C

Caeclyd
Cwmorthin Road
High St, Bl Ffestiniog
Dolbryn Glanpwll
3 Brothers
Penygroes, Bethania
Derfel Tanygrisiau
Garn Dolbenmaen
High St. Bl. Festiniog
Bronbarlwyd, T'grisiau
Tynllwyn, Tanygrisiau
Hendy, Talywaenydd
New St, Bl. Festiniog
West End, Tanygrisiau
Tynewydd Ffynon
Cemlyn, Dorvil St
High St, Bl. Festiniog
From View, Bl. Festiniog
Bronddwyryd Bl. Fest
Talywaenydd
Glandwr, Tanygrisiau
Glanrafon Tce, T'ygrisiau
Oakeley Tce Talywanydd
Barlwyd Ave, T'ygrisiau

Winchester
France
France
France
France
Framce
France
France
Mesopotamia
Gaza
Gaza
France
France
Palestine
Syria
France
France
France
France
France
Italy
Home
Home
E. Africa

"MEWN ANGOF NI CHANT FOD"

YSGOL Y GENETHOD, MAENOFFEREN

Diolchiadau i bapur 'Llafar Bro'

Dyma llun oddiwrth Mrs Alwena Davies - un a dynnwyd tua chanol y pumdegau yn Ysgol y Genethod, Maenofferen. Efallai y bydd o ddiddordeb a fe hoffwn innau wybod ble mae's genethod bach del erbyn hyn?
Mae'r diweddar Miss Beryl Maud Jones, Bryn Tegid gynt ar y chwith a minnau ar y dde.

Cysylltwch / contact mail@penmon.org

Mrs Alwenna Davies has submitted this photo of the Girls School, Maenofferen, from the mid fifties, and would love to know where the pretty girls are now. The late Miss Beryl Maud Jones is on the left, and Mrs Davies is on the right.

Photo courtesy of Sian Roberts

Top; Cheryl. Rosina, Liz Lloyd, Linda, Liz Yoxhall, Phillys Hughes, Anna, June
Middle ; Barbara, Sian, Carys, Ann, Teresa, June, Winifred, Trefena, Catherine,
teacher Sahra Owen
Bottom; Patricia, Brenda, Shina, Marian, Bozenca, Pat Freeman, Delyth, Anwen, Myra

MAENOFFEREN INFANT SCHOOL
around 1950

Photo and information kindly supplied by Sian Roberts

Miss Rowlands was head teacher, and is standing on the left.
Back row; George, Elizabeth, Sian, Philys, Moira, Gordon
Middle row; Clifford, Alwyn, Jenifer, Elizabeth, Lloyd, --?--, Caroline (?)
Front row; Richard Hughes, Michael Dunn, Brenda, Gwendoline --?--, --?--

CENTENARY OF BLAENAU RAILWAY
Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, Friday. July 27, 1979
Kindly supplied by Sian Roberts

Two thousand people, locals and tourists - converged on Blaenau Ffestiniog's railway station on Sunday, to celebrate the centenary of the arrival of the first standard gauge railway to Blaenau.

Blaenau Merched y Wawr in 1879 dresses
together with Dilwyn Vaughan
with his very old iron hoop and guide

Many people turned up dressed in 1879 style and there was a carnival spirit all around as the Royal Oakeley Silver Band led an 1879-style procession down Blaenau's main street towards the railway station .

It had been anticipated that some local men would be seen in 1879 quarry workers' attire, but it was left to two six year old boys, Celfyn Evans and Martin Williams, who were very good mini representations of the old slate miners - pale faced and covered with slate dust.

A few of the ladies in period costumes had regard to the puritanical population of 1879 Blaenau Ffestiniog and carried Bibles with them on parade - notably Mrs Ellen Evans, who had a massive "Beibl Peter Williams".

Another group of 1879 dresses from Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Dressing must have taken hours,
Ladies and children were dressed to perfection allround.

Features which added interest to the occasion included items by the Royal Oakley, The Moelwyn and Brythoniaid choirs, slate industry exhibitions and local views exhibition.

The rostrum party for the Blaenau Ffestiniog Rail Run Centenary on July 22nd;
Mr Wyn Roberts M.P., Mr Dafydd Ellis Thomas M.P., T. J. Anderson, Divisional Manager B. R., Councillor Phillips, Mayor of Aberconwy Bro Councy Council, Councillor Eric Walker, Chairman of Meirionnydd District Council, Councillor Holland Williams, Chairman of Ffestiniog Town Council, John Dale, Area Manager, B.R., Rev. T. Evans Williams, Blaenau Ffestiniog. .

There were speeches. Conwy M.P. Mr Wyn Roberts stressed the importanace of tourism; Mr Dafydd Elis Thomas, M.P. for Merioneth thanked British Rail for bilingual signs - with Welsh forms first. Mr Thomas also made the presentation of a beautiful slate fan to Mr Roberts.

Mr Arthur Holland Williams chairman of the local town council, welcomed the guests. He recalled the important role the Blaenau - Llandudno Junction branch had played in the life of Blaenau, and said that the energy crisis might cause railways to be again the chief means of transportation.

Closing prayer was said by the Rev. T. Evans Williams.

There was also the special centenary train, with 500 aboard. - and it arrived late! Among the special guests on board were the two M.P.S, and several mayors and council chairmen from places on the railway route.
On the platform to await the train were two "little rockmen" referred to already and four girls in traditional Welsh costumes, Paula McKinley, Elaine Bloor, Christine Bloor and Elina Hughes and local council members.

On the Blaenau end, the arrangements had been madeprimarily by Mr Meirion Jones amenities officer, Meirionnydd District Council. Mr T.E. Walker, chairman of the C.D.M. was present as a guest. The guests subsequently went up to see the railway exhibition and to have tea at The Queens Hotel.

Cllr Arthur Holland Williams (Chairman of Blaenau Council) opened the Conway Branch Line Centenary Exhibition last Saturday. Regional Manager of British Rail, Mr John Dale was there and Mrs Dale. In the group also is Mr Meirion Jones, Amenities Officer of the technical service of Cyngor Dosbarth Meirionnydd; Mr Ben Tillet represented the local Chamber of Trade. Mrs Nesta Williams, wife of the Council chariman, was presented with a bouquet by Elaine Bloor on behalf of British Rail. Next Saturday the centenary will come to a head with a special train to Blaenau Ffestiniog arriving at 3.05p.m...

Diolch / Thank you.
I am very grateful to Sian Roberts for all the help, photos and information she has so kindly supplied.
Sian's great grandfather Evan Ellis, lived at Glos y Graig. One of her grandfathers, Hugh Roberts and his wife Miriam (born around 1874) also lived there. Their only child, Sian's father Evan John Roberts was born in 1910 in Glos Graig.
He later moved to 53 High Street with his mother, when he got married.
Sian would be pleased to receive any information relating to her ancestors.
Sian can be contacted through mail@penmon.org

FFESTINIOG FESTIVITIES
& PHOTOGRAPHS
(Photos kindly supplied by Sian Roberts)

A Welsh Water Board retirement to Mr John Richard Jones around 1966. The names of some of the men pictured here are; Mr Egerton, John, Dick, John Tyddyn Gwyn, Arthur, Evan John, Huw, Bob Pollock. If you can supply the missing names, please contact mail@penmon.org

Brian Jones, of Eritrea, has kindly identified his wife Helen's father, Hugh Treahern Hughes, on the right of the picture. He was an employee of the Welsh Water Board at the time. For many years, Hugh was working in the slate mines of Blaenau Ffestiniog, where he contacted the disease caused by slate dust, infozhemia. Hugh was married to Meiriona, and was father to Tony and my wife of 30 years, Helen.
Sadly, Hugh passed away on the 29th March, 1983 in Bangor Hospital from the effect of the slate dust. He was just 54 years old.

I was absolutely delighted to receive the following message, from Margretta Young-Jones, KD;
The name of the person being presented was John Richard Thomas, my father. The photo was taken at The Waterworks Garreglwyd.
Dad used to walk to work every day when it was snowing -on his own through blizzards & all sorts of weather, to make sure that people of Ffestiniog would be sure to have water for their everyday use!
He used to work at the Gasworks before he went to the waterworks & he used to have a bike shop in Llan Ffestiniog -it was called "The XL depot "push bikes & motor bikes I wonder if there is any info of this shop anywhere? I think it was in the old Barracks where the flats are now with the plaque commemorating Elfyn the bard.
I have a photo, below, of dad by the old gasworks on his motorbike, a Royal Enfield taken around 1928 - there are some children in the photo & the Old Coop in the background.

John Richard Thomas on his motorbike outside the old gasworks, Cwmbowydd Road, Blaenau Ffestiniog, around 1929.

I believe this bike was new so it makes him about 26 years old when photo was taken, he was an employee at the Gasworks at the time. He was born 11th January 1903 at 34 Gladstone Road, Neston cum Parkgate, The Wirral.
The family moved to 3 Pen-y-bont when he was about 4 years old. His father was a gardener and got a job and a house at Caerblaidd. In 1923 J.R.T.opened a business in the village of Ffestiniog selling cycles, repairing cycles and motorbikes and he was the first agent selling Calor Gas in the area. It was called XL Depot and traded until about 1938. He sold up to buy a house "Gwynlys" because he was getting married to Rose Elizabeth.
He then bought another motorbike and sidecar when his daughter Margretta Ann was born in 1940.

Thanks for a very interesting web page.

Celebration of the Brythoniaid Choir, after winning at the
National Eisteddfod in the early 1970s.
Click here to visit their website.

VINTAGE TRANSPORT RALLY
EARLY 1970s

The St David's Church Ladies who dressed up as part of the occasion.
Glenys Thomas, Edna (nee Davies), Maureen (nee Davies),
Rev Evan & Mrs Williams,-?--,Valmai, Ann Rushworth,--?--, --?--, Sian.

Ysgol Glanypwll Christmas Concert 1979

Photo copyright G. Livingstone Evans

Tanygrisiau Carnival 1979

Photo copyright G. Livingstone Evans

Participating in a 'Nursery Rhyme' theme are; Marion McKinley, Jackie McKinley, Mark Mortimer, --?--, in the cot is Christine Bloor, Elaine Bloor, Dave McKinley

Blaenau Carnival 1981

Photo copyright G. Livingstone Evans

Blaenau Carnival Queen 1983
Prince Charming; Jackie McKinley, Queen; Sioned Jones; Lady in Waiting; Carys

Photo copyright G. Livingstone Evans

Carnival Queen Sioned's full Court

CASGLIAD
Haf Madoc Wilson

Diolchiadau mawr i Haf am y lluniau / cardiau ardderchog yma.
Gweler hanes ei theulu o Gaerhun ar dudalen
'Conway Valley Connections'

Blaenau Ffestiniog

Mam yw'r un gyda chroes o'i blaen, ond wn i ddim mwy am y digwyddiad

Oes y "ceffyl a throl"

Chwarelwyr yn eistedd ar y "car gwyllt"

Siarabang ar y chwith

Trawsfynydd

Mae'r darlun isod i'w weld yn neuadd y pentref
Mae yna gof-golofn i'r bechgyn ar ben "Bryn Coffa"

G. Llew Morris	J. Morris L.F.	W. Evans Canadians	Tom Morris R.W.F.	Rt. Morris Welsh Regt
E.R. Parry S.W.B.	Watkin Jones Welsh Regt.	Major Evans R.W.F.	W. Llew. Jones R.W.F.	W.J. Davies M.G.C.
O. Evans R.W.F.	Rd. Williams R.W.F.	Ellis Evans R.W.F.	R.E. Phillips R.W.F.	Evan Williams R.W.F.
J. Williams R.W.F.	Morris Lewis A.S.C.	Lieut Azariah Phillips R.F.C.	Ellis J. Jones R.E.	Tom Evans R.W.F.
G. Pryce Jarrett R.W.F.	R.R. Owen R.F.	H.T. Hughes R.W.F.	David Roberts S.W.B.	A.M. Lloyd R.W.F.
E. Thomas R.W.F.	David G. Williams R.W.F.	R.R. Hughes ? Regt	J. Jones R.W.F.	J. Evans Herts

Collodd fy nain 3 brawd yn ystod y rhyfel, ond "'run i'r hen Hitlar yna" - chwedl hi.
Daeth awyren Azariah i lawr, saethwyd Bob yn ddamwain gan ei ffrind tra'n glanhau eu gynnau, a bu William farw o'r ffliw.
Aeth John ymlaen i fod yn fferyllydd llwyddiannus round y gornel i
Harley Street, ac wedi ei ddewrder yn Rejet de Beaulieu aeth
Tudor Owen Phillips, M.C. ymlaen i fod yn Archeilydd Banciau.
Arhosodd nain adre i fagu teulu, ac aeth Anti Jennie i Lundain
i gadw ty i'w brawd.

Ellis Evans, "Hedd Wyn"

Mae'r ffordd osgoi fodern yn rhedeg trwy waelod y rhiw

Y ffordd yma'n arwain at Tyddyn Bach, cartref John Rowlands

BLAENAU FFESTINIOG FAMILIES

DESCENDANT OF KING OF WALES
WELSH WOMAN'S ROYAL CLAIM
Daily Courier Correspondent
December 10th 1924

Mrs Sarah Roberts, The Maes, who will celebrate her 80th birthday tomorrow, claims that she is a direct descendant of the famous Llwydiaid of Cwm Bychan, Harlech. She traces her ancestors back to Cynfyn, who was King of North Wales an the death of Meredith , son of Owen, son Edwin, Prince of South Wales in the 10th century.
Pennant, the famous historian, accompanied by the late Rev. John Lloyd, vicar of Caerwys, visited Cwm Bychan, and described in his book the welcome they received by Evan Lloyd, one of Mrs Roberts' ancestors.

They were supplied with "ale and potent beer and cheese made of the milk of cows and sheep, and they were shewn the ancient family cup in which large libations were made in days of yore."
Mrs Roberts, who is the 23rd descendant of Bleddyn ap Cynfyn, is the widow of Mr Robert Roberts, who was the first elected deacon of Bowydd Calvinistic Methodist Church, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

======= ****** ======
Sarah's grandparents were Evan and Mary Roberts, who lived in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Her husband Robert, was 4 years old in 1841

1841 Evan Roberts, 25 quarryman, Mary 25, Catherine,8, Ann, 6, Robert, 4, Gwen 9 months, Anne, 15.

1851 Llwyngell, Evan Roberts 38, Mary 38 wife, Anne 16, Robert 14, slate quarryman, Gwen 10, Mair 6, Lewis, 4, Ellin2.

1861 Llwynygell, Evan Roberts, 48, quarryman, Mary Roberts 48, wife, Robert 24, quarryman, Gwen 20, Lewis 14, quarryman, Evan 10. Mary was born in Penmachno. All others in Festiniog.

A son Llewelyn Roberts was born in 1879, but died in 1880.

1881, Dorvil Street, Robert Roberts 44, quarryman, Sarah 36, wife, Evan 9, Elizabeth A 7, John Lloyd 5, Robert 3, Mary 1 month, Sarah Parry, 20, general servant, Evan Roberts 68, widower quarryman, Elizabeth Powell, stepmother, former farmer's wife, all born Festiniog.

Daughter Mary died in 1882, and is buried with her parents.

A daughter Catherine Mary Roberts was born on the 18th November 1888, but died in either 1894 or 1895.

1891, Dorvil Street, Robert E, Roberts, 53, quarryman, Sarah 46, wife, Elizabeth Ann 17, Roberts 12, Sarah 8, Humphrey Ll. 4, Catherine M, 2,

1901, 3 Dorvil Street, Robert E Roberts, 64, slate quarryman, Sarah, wife 56, Evan, 29, Assistant Town Clerk, Elizabeth A 27, John Lloyd, 25 University Student, Sarah, 18, Elementary School Teacher, Humphrey Ll, 14. All born Ffestiniog. Boarding with the family was Ivor H Eames, born Llanfairfechain.

Robert died on the 28th October 1901, and is buried at St Michael's, Ffestiniog, "A faithful elder of Eglwys Bowydd for 20 years" Established Bowydd Chapel with one or two others.

Their son John Lloyd Roberts was educated at Higher Grade School, Bl Ffestiniog 1887-8, Taplow Grammar School, Oswestry High School 1889-93, Univ Coll Aberstwyth 1893-95, Queen's scholar to Bangor University 1898-1901. B Sc Degree in Physics, Pure and Applied Mathematics 1901. Returned to Blaenau Festiniog as an assistant at the County School 15/09/1901. Taught Chemistry and mathematics and then left in December 1916 to became a tax inspector - first in Glasgow and then in London. In 1898 tutored the war poet Julian Grenfell in Latin. Known as Lloyd Bops. Fished at Llynnoedd Gamallt.

Daughter Sarah became headmistress of the Ffestiniog Elementary School, and died in 1922

Son, Humphrey Llewelyn Roberts died in 1925.

If anyone can add further information about Sarah's family
please contact mail@penmon.org

I am grateful to Sue Jenkins for supplying
the following information on her family.

TANLAN & TAN Y FRON

Sue's great great grandparents were David Evans, born c 1800 in Betws y Coed and Catherine, also born c 1800, in Dolwyddelen. They had seven children in all and lived in Blaenau.

1851 census, Tanlan, Festiniog, David Evans 52, quarryman, born Betws y Coed, Catherine 49, wife born Dolwyddelen, Evan 22, quarryman, Ann 19, Hugh, 17, quarryman, David 14, quarryman, Griffith 12, quarryman, Joseph, 10, Jane 8, all born Festiniog.

1861 census, Tanlan, Festiniog, David Evans, 61, slate miner, born Betws y Coed, Catherine, wife 61, born Dolwyddelen, sons; Evan 30, Griffith 23, Joseph 20 all slate quarriers, born Festiniog.

Son Griffith marries Margaret, and later, Alice Evans, Sue's grandmother is born c 1866.

1871 census, Tan y Fron, Ffestiniog, Griffith Evans, 32, slate quarrier, born Festiniog, Margaret Evans 31, wife, born Beddgelert, Alice Evans, 5 daughter, born Festiniog.

1881 census; Tan y Fron, Tanygrisiau, Griffith D. Evans, 42, quarryman, born Festiniog, Margaret 42, wife, born Beddgelert, daughters, Alice, 15, and Margaret 3, both born Festiniog. Richard Jones, 32 of Llaniestyn, a general labourer, was lodging with the family.

1891 census; Tan y Fron, Tanygrisiau, Griffith D. Evans, 52, quarryman, born Festiniog, Margaret 52, wife, born Beddgelert, daughters, Alice, 25, dressmaker and Margaret 13, both born Festiniog.

Margaret Evans dies December 1893.

Alice married Thomas Jones, who was born in Trefriw in 1871. In 1901, he worked at the slate quarry, until he lost his arm in an accident there. He became an insurance agent for Britannic in Blaenau. He died at Tan y Fron, Tanygrisiau in 1937.

Griffith David Evans died April 1900.

1901 census; Tan y Fron, Tanygrisiau, Thomas Jones, 30, born Caernarfonshire (Trefriw) slate miner, Alice 34, wife , born Merionethshire. Also living with them was Margaret A. Evans, 23, living on her own account, also born in Merionethshire.

Alice is pictured here with son Thomas Griffith Jones, Sue's father.

The photo was taken by W. J. Roberts, of Bolton House, Blaenau.

Click here to read about Alice's husband Thomas' family in the
Conway Valley Connections link .

Sue would like information relating to the couples in the following photos. Could they be her great grandparents and great great grandparents?

Sue Jenkins has another family mystery to resolve - why did her grandparents separate - can anyone help please?

My grandmother was Jane Ellen Thomas (neeMcNeil), known as Jinny, and was born July 18th 1879 in Aberdaron. She married Dr. John Meredith Thomas on July 16th 1902 at Deunant Chapel in Aberdaron. They had 3 children - Margaret, Mona and John (known as Jack) and the family lived at Menai Bridge. My grandmother left the family between 1915 and 1920 under mysterious circumstances and as my grandfather disowned all 3 children around 1933 we do not know the date she died or where she is buried.

I've recently discovered she died around 1927 but she is not buried with my grandfather who died 1940. My grandparents did not divorce.

Sue can be contacted via mail@penmon.org

FAMILY OF GRIFFTH EDWARDS

I am very
grateful to Andrew for sharing this information
with us.
KD

I'm a great great grandson of Mr Griffith Edwards who lived in 99 High Street, Blaenau in 1901, and where my great grand mother Margaret Jane Edwards was born. I'm very happy to have found your website and congratulate for so great and exceptional work !!!
I'm searching my Welsh roots so I will be contacting you soon and sending more information. My family have lived in Argentina for about 100 years, when they left Wales.
Andrés E Romero. (Andrew)

Here are census details of Andrew's great great grandparents and family and some memories he kindly shares with us.

My great great grandfather, Griffith Edwards, who was born in Bethesda, married Jane Jones of Ffestiniog. They lived at Ty Ganol, Ffestiniog when they were married.

1871 Census, Ty Ganol, Griffith Edwards, 22, quarryman, born Bethesda, Caernarfonshire, Jane Edwards 20, wife, John G. Edwards 1 month, both born in Ffestiniog.

Slate quarrymen

1881 Census, 99 High Street, Griffith Edwards, 33, slate quarryman, born Bethesda, Caernarfonshire, Jane Edwards 30, wife, John G. Edwards 10, William G., 8, George C. 3, all born in Ffestiniog. Also living with them was William O. Owen, 23, a slate quarryman, born in Caernarfonshire.

My great grandmother, Margaret Jane Edwards was born on the 28th September 1882. Her parents lived at 99 High Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog. Her birth was registered on the 1st November 1882.

1891 Census, 100 High Street, Griffith Edwards, 42, slate quarryman, born Bethesda, Caernarfonshire, Jane Edwards 37, wife, John G. Edwards 21, slate quarrier, Griffith Caradog, 13, slate quarrier, Margaret J. 8, Robert E. 5, apprentice ironmonger, all born in Ffestiniog

1901 Census, 99 High Street, Griffith Edwards, 52, slate quarrier, born Caernarfonshire, Jane Edwards 50, wife, John G. Edwards 30, slate quarrier, Caradog, 22, slate quarrier, Margaret J. 17, apprentice milliner, Robert E. 14, apprentice ironmonger, all born in Ffestiniog

Family tradition has it that there were caves carved under the basement of 99 High Street, where poor people used to rent and live. It's entrance was through a secret door between the staircase and the kitchen. It sounds like tales of terror on a misty night. I wonder if it still exists and whether that was where William lived in 1881?

Margaret Jane Edwards married Charles Robinson Thomas, who was born in Birkenhead between January and March 1876. He used to live at 2 Rose Street.
In 1891, Charles was living at 3 Crown St, Birkenhead, close to Rose Street, with his family. His father, William R. Thomas was 46, born in Caernarfon and worked as an engine fitter. William's wife Isabella was also 46 and born in Caernarfon. Their daughter Louisa was 16, born Liverpool and worked as a milliners apprentice. Charles himself, was aged 15 and worked as a telegraph messenger. His brother Arhur H. was 10 and a scholar, born Birkenhead. William's nephew, Evan Williams 23, born Bangor, was a railway stoker and lived with the family. Boarding there was Richard Jones 31, of Port Dinorwic, was also a railway stoker.
Charles Robinson Thomas lived at 2 Rose Street, Birkenhead in 1881, aged 5, with parents William R Thomas, 36 a marine engineer and Isobella 36. His sister Louisa was 6, and brother Arthur just 8 months old.

Margaret and Charles with son Caradog

He was a mechanical engineer and emigrated to Bahia Blanca City, Argentina. His family joined him later. He was chief engineer and in charge of the first steam engine tug boat to depart from Liverpool and arrive at the city port of Bahia Blanca.

Charles worked on the railway construction at the local port and had always wanted to return home to either Blaenau or Birkenhead, but the availability of more work kept him there, although he usually returned to Britain once a year.

OLD VIEWS OF BAHIA BLANCA CITY

Margaret Jane
with Caradog

Charles Robinson Thomas

Galvan Port, with Charles and Margaret's home below.

Charles died suddenly in May 1930, leaving a wife and four children. Their eldest son, Caradog Robinson Thomas died at the age of three. The other children were Arthur Robinson Thomas, Ethel Thomas, Edith Thomas and the youngest was Gwladys Thomas, my grandmother

.
Both Charles and Margaret are buried in Bahia Blanca.

Arthur Robinson Thomas married Laura Pirona, whose son Roberto Daniel Thomas (Bobby) currently lives in Buenos Aires, and has kindly supplied some of the photographs appearing here.

Gwladys married my grandfather, Alejandro S. Ritacco. Their daughter Susana B. Ritacco, my mother married Antonio J. Romero.

I, Andrés E Romero, married M. Julia Pietrafesa, and we have two sons, Tomás Romero 12, and Gastón Romero 9.

My grandmother, Gwladys Thomas Edwards visited the house in Blaenau in 1924 and she remembered a little train passing behind the backyard wall, which took the quarrymen to the quarries.

Gwladys obtained a copy of her mother's birth certificate at that time.

Postcards received by Charles from his brother Arthur Haff Thomas.

Your handsome (deleted) brother Haff
Ceylon 1909

Haff with friends

Cape Town 18.01.1905
Dear Charles, Received Xmas cards from Mr & Mrs E. also Alice. Sent two in return. Good luck, "Haff"

Other immigrants came to Argentina and settled in the province of Chubut and founded towns named Trevelin, Gaiman, Dolavon, and Trelew. I also discovered that a family called Hughes came from Blaenau to the town of Esquel.

The following photo is in the family's possession.
Can anyone identify the people please?
mail@penmon.org
I am very grateful to Mrs Dilys Thomas for contacting me and naming the Minister as the late Parchedig Hywel Jones, of Capel Mawr Tabernacl, which sadly has been demolished. Parchedig Hywel Jones married Dilys and her husband Cyril.
Dilys' Uncle John Griffith Edwards (Uncle Jack) is sitting to his right, and her Aunt Mrs Margaret Edwards, to his left.
Dilys is related to Andrew Romero. Her father Robert Evan Edwards, was Griffith Edwards' brother.

JOHN ELIAS JONES

I am very grateful to David Snell, partner of Rhiannon Smith, granddaughter of John Elias Jones for supplying me with the following information.

John Elias Jones was born in 1855 at Llanystumdwy, Criccieth, the son of Robert and Anne Jones.

In 1861 the family were living at Tai Newyddion, Llanystumdwy. Robert Jones was 37, working as a tailor / master and was born in Llanarmon, his wife Anne was 38, born Criccieth. Their family consisted of Gwen 16, Margaret 13, Evan 10, John Elias 7 and Janet 4, all born in Llanystumdwy.

Ten years later in 1871, and still at Tai Newyddion, the household consisted of Robert 48, tailor, Anne 49, John Elias 16 who was following in his father's footsteps as a tailor, Jannet 14, William 11 and Robert 5.

A neighbour of theirs was Richard Lloyd, a 36 year old shoemaker born in Llanystumdwy. He lived at Highgate. His widowed sister and her family lived with him.

Richard Lloyd, 36, shoemaker and lay preacher, his sister Elizabeth George 42, formerly a school master's wife, who was also born Llanystumdwy. Her children were Mary Ellen George 9 born Newchurch Lancashire, David Lloyd George 7, born Manchester, and William George, born Llanystumdwy.

David Lloyd George would come to prominence as our Prime Minister. He'd moved to Llanystumdwy when 18 months old..

John Elias Jones married Mary Pritchard, born 1854 and by the 1881 census had moved to live at Leeds House, Chwilog, Pwllheli. He was a tailor and draper. They had four children with them, Anne 5, Elias 4, Evan 3 and Martha 1, all recorded as born in Llanarmon, according to the census.

Around 1882, the family moved to Rhiwlas before relocating to Blaenau Ffestiniog some two years later, where they lived at 3 Newmarket Square, prior to residing at Highstone House, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

In 1891, John Elias Jones was plying his trade in Blaenau Ffestiniog and was recorded as living at 53 High Street. He was aged 36 and wife Mary was 37. Their household consisted of children Anne 15, Elias 14, Evan 13, both sons working as tailors, Martha 11, (all recoded as born in Chwilog), Mary 9, John 7, born in Rhiwlas, Janet 5, Robert 3, and Ellen 7 months, all born in Ffestiniog.

A decade later in 1901, the family were living at 8 Summer Hill, Blaenau Ffestiniog. John Elias Jones was 47, a tailor and clothier, wife Mary was 48. Both were erroneously recorded as 77 and 78 respectively on the census. Sons Elias 24 and Evan were tailors, Mary was 19, John E. Jones 17, was a school teacher, Janet 16, Robert 13, Ellen J. 10, Henry P. was 9, and Megan 7.

John Elias had maintained his friendship with David Lloyd George, who in December 1916, contrived to overthrow the then Prime Minister Herbert Asquith, on the grounds that he was not conducting the Great War with efficiency and vigour. Lloyd George then became Prime Minister and remained in office until 1922.
John Elias Jones was proud to be commissioned at David Lloyd George's tailor.

David Lloyd George. Click here to read a biography.

At some point, John Elias Jones and some members of the family moved to live in 13 Tillery Street, Abertillery.

John Elias Jones, centre,
with sons Robert Elias Jones left, and Evan Jones, right.

John died on the 13th November 1923, and his wife Mary died on the 21st February 1928.

CHILDREN OF JOHN ELIAS and MARY JONES

Annie Jones was born in 1876 at Chwilog, and married Edward Arthur Williams, born 1871. He was a quarryman. Annie died on the 17th December 1950 in Abertillery. They lived at 30 Dorvill Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog and later, 14 Power St, Abertillery.

Elias Jones was born in 1877 at Chwilog, and was a tailor by trade. He died on the 19th April 1930 in Abertillery. He lived at 3 Tillery Street, Abertillery.

Evan Jones was born in 1878 at Chwilog. He died on the 6th July 1962 at Abertillery. He lived close to Carmel Street, Abertillery.

Martha Jones was born in 1880 at Chwilog. She married an Edwards. She died on the 18th June 1902 in Blaenau Ffestiniog. She is buried at Bethesda Cemetery. She lived at Fairview.

Mary Jones was born in 1882 at Rhiwlas, and died on the 7th September 1945.

John Jones was born in 1884 and was known as Jack. He was born at Rhiwlas and died on the 25th June 1934 at Cefn Mably.

Janet Jones was born in 1886 at Blaenau Ffestiniog. She married Saad Lloyd. They had six children, Agnes, Mary, Dora, Bert, Jack and Erme, all became school teachers. Janet died in 1956 in Abertillery. They lived at Richmond Road, Abertillery.

Robert Elias Jones

Robert Elias Jones was born on the 19th November, 1887 at Blaenau Ffestiniog. He married Winifred Emily Williams on the 11th of July 1938. Winifred was born on the 16th of August 1901.

The couple had two daughters, Rhiannon, who has assisted with this information and Mary.

Winifred was the daughter of James and Mary Ann Williams (nee Goodwin) who were married on the 28th January 1907. James' father William was a labourer. Mary's father Price Goodwin was also a labourer from The Village, Evanjobb. Her mother was originally a Hamer.

Robert Elias Jones died on the 18th April 1954 in Abertillery. They lived at 13 Tillery Street in 1934, and 14 Powell Street Abertillery.

Ellen Jones was born in 1890 at Blaenau Ffestiniog. She was known as Nell. She died on the 25th March 1985 at Abertillery.

Henry Pritchard Jones was born in 1892 at Blaenau Ffestiniog and was known as Harry. He married Lily (b1897 - 1983) and died on the 22nd September 1951 at Abertillery. They lived at 3 Llwynon Road, Abertillery. They had two daughters, Menna Wyn and Mair.

Megan Jones was born in 1894 at Blaenau Ffestiniog. Megan married Cliff Price and they had two children, Mary and John. They ran a Grocery Shop in Alexandra Road, Six Bells, Abertillery. She died on the 25th March 1973 in Abertillery.

PARENTS OF JOHN ELIAS JONES

ROBERT and ANNE JONES

Robert Jones was born in Llannor according to the 1851 census, around 1823,

He married Ann, born in 1823 at Criccieth. The couple had seven children in all. Gwen born 1845, Margaret born 1848, Evan born 1851 John Elias Jones born 1855, Janet born 1857, William born 1860 and Robert born 1863

In 1851, the couple lived at 3 New House, Llanystumdwy. Robert 28, was a Master tailor, employing one man. His wife Ann was also 28 and they had daughters Gwen 5, and Margaret 2, both born in Llanystumdwy living with them. Also resident there was Humphrey Thomas, 16, a servant tailor, born in Abererch.

In 1861 the family were living at Tai Newyddion, Llanystumdwy. Robert Jones was 37, working as a tailor / master and was born in Llanarmon, his wife Anne was 38, born Criccieth. Their family consisted of Gwen 16, Margaret 13, Evan 10, John Elias 7 and Janet 4, all born in Llanystumdwy.

In 1881, Robert 58, was employing his two sons, William 21 and Robert 19. They lived at 2 Tai Newyddion, Llanystumdwy with Robert's wife Anne, 59.

Robert 69, still worked as a tailor in 1891. He and wife Anne 70, lived together at Tai Newyddion. All their children had left home.

The couple may have died by the 1901 census.

If anyone has any further information they would like to add to this section on John Elias Jones and his family, Rhiannon (granddaughter of John Elias Jones, daughter of Robert Elias Jones) and David Snell would love to hear from you.
They can be contacted via mail@penmon.org

Response received December 2009;
I was very interested to read the article about John Elias Jones because he is my Great Grandfather. My name is Eric Bryant and I am 2nd cousin to Rhiannon. I was born in 14 Powell Street ( not Power street) and lived opposite in no.21. I would be very grateful if you could put me in touch with Rhiannon because I have not seen her for more than 55 years and would love to make contact. I too have been researching family for the past 25 years and possess much information in which I am sure she would be interested.

JOHN RUSSELL
Master Blacksmith

Mr Fred Russell from Australia writes;

Dear Sir. I have spent the last hour in your part of Stiniog and enjoyed the same. I left Manod in 1951 and have lived in Australia, returning twice to Blaenau. My father worked in Oakley, my Great grandfather was John Russell, a Master blacksmith who also worked in Oakley. Regards Fred Russell

John Russell and his family lived at 194, Manod Road in 1901. He was 44 years old, born in Towyn, Merioneth and was a blacksmith at that time. His wife Dorothy was 41 and born in Festiniog as were their children. Laura was 11, Mary 10, Thomas 9, Anne 7, Robert 6, Gwen 4, David 2 and Esther 1.

JOHN and
CATHERINE GRIFFITHS

Photo courtesy of Richard Griffith

John and Catherine Griffiths with a young girl, in a photograph taken in Slater Studios of Llandudno around 1890. As far as I know, there was only one daughter, Mary, who was born in 1855, and this girl looks too young.

Richard Griffith of Maryland U.S.A. has been in touch about his Blaenau Ffestiniog ancestors. KD

My father's family is from Blaenau Ffestiniog and Trefriw.
John Griffiths, my great great grandfather, was a Slate miner born in Caernarvonshire around 1824. His wife Catherine was also born in Caernarvonshire, around 1826. The family lived in Blaenau Ffestiniog between 1871 and 1891, on Tabernacle Terrace near the quarry at first and then they moved down to Cwm Bowydd Road a bit down the hill.

Their son Richard Griffiths, was born at Talsarn as reported in the Census, though it seems unclear if it was Talsarnau or Talysarn. He worked as a Slate Miner, and lived on Tablernacle Terrace, while his parents John and Catherine Griffiths and brothers Morris and Griffiths lived on Cwm Bowydd road.

Richard married an orphan girl Margaret Ann Roberts of Lord Street, in Blaenau Ffestiniog on the 13th September, 1881. They were my great grandparents. Richard was a Slate miner also, one of few who worked in an Underground Slate mine, rather than the above ground quarry.

Richard and Margaret came to the United States/Vermont around 1887 or so, the year my grandfather was born. It seems unclear if my grandfather was born in Wales, but we believe he was born in Poultney, Vermont. My great grandfather worked in Slate Quarries in Poultney, along with a number of Welsh immigrants from Blaenau.

I believe Catherine Griffiths, 75 years of age in 1901 on your website, at 17 Cwm Bowydd road, is my Great Great grandmother, and Morris, next door, a great uncle.

SMILING THROUGH THE YEARS
(click here to visit Richard Griffith's wonderful family history website)

Griffiths and Jones Family History
From Wales to the USA and Africa

Four Griffiths Children Left to Right About 1910:
Ethel, died of whooping cough at Five;
Margaret, who became a Teacher;
George, a future executive at Goodyear;
Wayne, who became a doctor
(photo courtesy of Richard Griffith)

This website is intended to look back through the longing years of hardship to the Griffith family, miners who emigrated from Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales at the end of the last century, and have emerged still smiling through this vale of tears, enduring the tests of this world and the next.
It also contrasts the Jones family of Mount Vernon New York , England, and Africa. In particular, these are pictures and stories of Welsh immigrants to America, to Poultney, Vermont, where the Founder of the New York Times was born and raised, and Mount Vernon, New York, which saw the successful rise of a middle class.

Robert Lloyd
1806 - 1869
and
Jane Lloyd
(nee Jones)
b 1806
Dolgarreg Ddu Ffestiniog

Received the following message from
Dave Hopkins KD;

I just wanted to thank you for all of the information that you posted about Blaenau Ffestiniog.
I have a lot of family that came from that town, and they all seemed to have lived on Dolgarreg Ddu.
It's great that I can even see those houses in Google Maps.
My folks came over to America in the mid 1800s though, so they likely missed your folks. Though, myfolks seem to have been going back and forth for family visits for a while, so there must me folks in Wales that I am related to.
All of my folks worked with slate, and when they heard that Delta, Pennsylvania had good slate, they came over here and created that town.
Now, Delta looks a lot like Blaenau Ffestiniog, with the piles of slate surrounding the town.
There's still a decent Welsh community left, and there's even a Welsh church where I believe they still have Welsh services.

At some point I am hoping to connect some of my names to people who are in Wales.
I have gotten them in the census, that's how I know what street they lived on.
I have these names that came to America:

Humphrey Lloyd b1839 to Robert and Jane Lloyd
Hugh Williams b1806 and Winifred (Gwen) Jones b1813

Dolgarreg Ddu Census 1841

Robert Lloyd, 35, quarryman, Jane Lloyd 35,
John 14, Robert 12, Richard 9
Edward 6, Ellis 4, Humphrey 1
John Francis 50
all born in Merionethshire

Dolgarreg Ddu Census 1851

Robert Lloyd, 46, quarry labourer, b Maentwrog
Jane Lloyd 46, b Maentwrog
Robert 21, slate quarryman b Maentwrog
Richard 19, slate quarryman b Llanbedr
Edward 17, slate quarryman b Maentwrog
Ellis 14, slate quarryman b Maentwrog
Humphrey 11, slate quarryman b Maentwrog
William 9 scholar, b Ffestiniog

I guess that's it for Ffestiniog.

But I also have a guy Hugh E Hughes from Caernavonshire b1840 who actually fought a lot of battles in the American Civil War.
Pretty amazing. He came to Delta and did slate as well.

All of these folks brought a lot of family with them, and they are all buried together up near Delta.
Their tombstones and crypts are made of slate, so they are in incredible shape.
And many of them tell stories of their lives, in Welsh.

If any of this rings a bell, or if you have any ideas for folks that I could get in touch with, please let me know.
Thank you!
Dave Hopkins

If you can help Dave, he can be contacted viamail@penmon.org

ANNE DAVIES
120 High Street, Blaenau

Mr Ivor Betty has been in touch. He is keen on finding information on some of his family who lived at 120 High Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog in 1911.

Ivor writes: I am looking for a family of Davies and this what I have.
Ann Davies was born in 1876 at Gellinn Isaf, Beddgelert, Merioneth. She was widowed arond 1910, her husband's name was John Davies. Anne had the following children living with her at 120 High Street, during the 1911 census; Robert Davies born 1902 in Nant-y-Moel, Annie Davies born 1904 in Senghenydd, Catherine Davies born 1910 in Ffestiniog.
Anne's unmarried sister Catherine Williams born 1850 in Beddgelert. was also living with the family.

I do not know were her husband John is from as I cannot find John and Anne on the 1901 Census and Anne is widowed by 1911.
I know that Anne was married to John Davies as I have Robert Thomas Davies' Birth Certificate and he was born 29 October 1901, in Nantymoel Glamorgan.

Can you help Ivor with his research please?
He can be contacted via mail@penmon.org
I am very grateful to Ivor for assisting me with my family research

HUMPHREYS FAMILY
Manod Road

Sue Wheeldon writes; I am searching for the descendants of the Humphreys family who lived at 112 Manod Road, Blaenau Ffestiniog. I can remember visiting this house - probably in the late 1950s.

My paternal grandmother was Catherine Jones who married Griffith Williams in 1901 - the marriage certificate gives William Jones as her father. On her birth certificate, however, no father is named, but her mother is also Catherine. Presumably, the details were brushed under the carpet!!

I am interested to confirm the identity of Catherine Jones' father, my great grandfather and to discover whether or not, as her birth certificate suggests, she was actually illegitimate.

I suspect my grandmother was brought up by her grandparents but, if my guess is correct, her mother went on to marry Jonah Humphreys in 1889.

The 1911 census for 112 Manod Road gives Jonah & Catherine Humphreys as living there along with their sons Gwilym, Morris, Lewis & Evan & I believe there was another son Robert.

I do hope this makes some remote sense and what it boils down to is the fact that I feel there must be someone in the Ffestiniog area who descends from the Humphreys family in question.

I was born Susan Williams in Chester - the daughter of Lucy & William Jones Williams.

Sue can be contacted via mail@penmon.org if you can help with her enquiry.KD

Thomas Henry Roberts
1882 - 1939
&
Sarah Ann Roberts
1883 - 1928

Received the following enquiry from Keith Roberts;
Just wondered if you might have any records on the above - my grand parents.
Thomas Henry and Sarah had three children Ellen, Maggie (Margaret) and David (my father).
They moved to South Wales after the first world war in search of work after the decimation of the slate industry at Blaenau-Ffestiniog. They walked from Blaenau-Ffestiniog to Cryant about 1920 - impressive!
All I have to go on is memorial grave stone I took a picture of recently. So much lichen on it I can't read clearly. The memorial headstone is engraved in Welsh so can't make out exactly what is written. Sarah Ann Roberts dies aged 45 on Tachwedd (November) 12 1928 so born 1883. Thomas Henry Roberts dies Chwefror (February) 19th 1939 aged 57 so born 1882.

If you can help Keith, he can be contacted via mail@penmon.org

DAVID GRIFFITH WILLIAMS
1837 - 1923
Church Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog

I was delighted to receive the following enquiry; KD
My Great Grandparents lived in Blaenau their names were David Griffith Williams and Mary Williams. They lived on Church Street the house seemed to have two names, Albion House and Tanmarian. I am wondering if you have any information on them. I would love to know what their life was like. I know my Mother told me that my Great Grandfather could not speak English.
Regards Avril.
We have put together the following family history. KD

David Griffith Williams was born in Dolwyddelen, Caernarfonshire in 1837.

He had married Mary by 1860, they had one daughter by the time of the 1861 census, and were living in Festiniog. He was a quarryman.

A daughter Gaynor, died aged 5 in 1859, and a son Griffith died in April 1861, a year old.

1861 Census, Festiniog; Trefeini;
David Williams, 24, head of household, born in Dolwyddelen, was a slate quarryman. His wife Mary was 27, also Dolwyddelen born. They had a daughter Ann, aged 1, born in Festiniog.
The family had two lodgers, both quarry labourers, David Richard aged 21, born in Talyllyn, and Robert Williams, 20, born in Dolwyddelen.

On the 7th April, 1861, a son Owen died aged 18 months.

By 1871, the family had moved to Tan y Marian, Bowydd Terrace, Festiniog.

1871 Census, Festiniog; Tan y Marian, Bowydd Terrace;
David Williams, 33, head of household, was still a slate quarryman. His wife Mary was 36. Their daughter Ann, was now 12, and she had two siblings living at home, Griffith, aged 5, and Gaynor, 7, both born in Festiniog.
The family had two boarders, both quarrymenm Walter Davies 14, and Richard Jones, 25, both born in Caernarvon.

The family were in Church Street, Festiniog by 1881.

1881 Census, Festiniog; Trefeini;
David Williams, 44, head of household, was a quarryman. His wife Mary was 46. Their family living with them, consisted of Elizabeth, 9, Gaynor, 17, and Griffith, D. Williams, 15.
Thomas R. Williams, 18, of Llanllyfni was boarding with them.

My Great Grandfather at some point was a Quarryman but then he became a Tea Merchant.

Two of their children died as teenagers. Owen Williams died at the age of 17 I think. Anne apparently "Outgrew her strength".

Mary Williams died on the 9th of April, 1902. Her cause of death was Malignant Disease of stomach and liver Her son in law was present at her death. He lived at 2 Ynyr Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

The Family Grave
at St Michael Cemetery, Festiniog

ER SERCHOG GOF AM
Anwyl Blant
David G a Mary Williams
Tanymarian Bl. Festiniog
Gaynor a fu farw Tach 14eg 1859
yn 5 Blwydd oed
Griffith a fu farw Ebrill 7fed 1861
Owen Griffith a fu farw Tach 6ed 1870
Ann a fu farw Mai 2 1874
yn 15 mlwydd oed
Hefyd eu Mam, Mary Williams
yr hon a fu farw Ebrill 9fed 1902
yn 68 mlwydd oed

David Griffith Williams
yn 87 mlwydd oed 1924

IN LOVING MEMORY OF
The dear children of
DAVID G and MARY WILLIAMS
Tanymarian, Bl. Festiniog

Gaynor who died Nov 14th 1859
aged 5 years old
Griffith who died April 7th 1861
aged years old
Owen Griffith who died Nov 6th 1870
aged 18 months old
Ann who died May 2nd 1874
aged 15 years old

Also their Mother Mary Williams
who died April 9th 1902
aged 68 years old

David Griffith Williams
aged 87 years old, 1924

In Loving Memory
of

MARY WILLIAMS

The beloved wife of D.G. Williams, Albion House, Church Street, Blaenau Festiniog

Born Sept. 8, 1834 Died April 9, 1902

And was buried at St. Michael Cemetery, Festiniog,
April 12

Ei hoff Emyn;

Caned nef a daear lawr-
Fe gaed ffynon,
I olchi pechaduriaid mawr,
Yn glaerwynion;
Yn a ffynnon gyda hwy,
Minnau 'niolehaf,
Ac a ganaf byth tra bwy,
Haleliwia.

David Griffith Williams died at 24 Orchard Street, Chester on the 3rd of May, 1923, but was taken back to Wales to be buried. Cause of death was recorded as Senile decay, and Chronic bronchitis. His grand daughter ...... Ann Rowlands was present at his death.

Griffith David Williams

My Grandfather, Griffith David Williams moved to Chester and was the manager of a Jam Factory. He was Welsh, my Grandmother Elizabeth Farrell, was of Irish parents.

Marriage Certificate Details

Griffith David Williams and Elizabeth Farrell were married on the 12th August, 1899, at a Chester Registry Office.
Griffith was 29 years old, a bachelor, working as a confectioner, living at 5 Blaen Friars, Chester. His father David Griffith Williams was a General dealer.
Elizabeth was 19, a spinster with no occupation, living at 9 Davies Court, Steam Mill Street, Chester. Her father, James Farrell was a Tailor.
Witnesses were Henry Williams and Sarah Ellen Farrell

My Grandparents had 9 children 6 boys and 3 girls. The youngest boy George drowned in the Chester Canal in 1937 he was just 18. He went out on a foggy night on his bike and missed his way. The rest of them lived in Chester and 4 of the boys served in the Second World War

My Grandfather according to my Mother had met Lloyd George and was a very political person. I have a very tattered letter he wrote to Sir Owen Phillips in 1915. He kept a copy for himself. It gives an idea on how he felt about issues of the times. He was also played a small accordion.

My Great Grandfather, David Griffith Williams, seated, my Grandfather Griffith David Williams and my Uncle David.

Griffith Parry

This is Griffith Parry who was, I think my Mothers Uncle.

I remember my Mother telling me how her Uncle Griff was a Sheriff and went to America, but I think sometimes stories about family can be wrongly interpretated.

I think just because he was a Sheriff they might have concluded that he had gone to America but when I looked up some history on the word it turns out that there were Sheriffs in Wales and he could have been some sort of a Policeman.

Mary

This is a picture of my Grandfathers sisters daughter.

On the back of the picture is written 'Mary who died at 32 of pneumonia and left a little boy'.

The postcard was sent to my brother from Blaenau
when we were on holiday in the 50's.

Bishop William Morgan

Another story told by an older member of the family was that we are related to the person who translated the Bible into Welsh, Bishop William Morgan, pictured here.

That was spoken of by my Mother's cousin whose Mother was my Grandfather's Sister.

Click here to read more about
Bishop William Morgan

36 Dorvil Street, Ffestiniog

Received this fascinating message from Sheila James; KD

I was interested in your site - primarily because some of my family come from the Llanfihangel y Creuddyn area, but I have now found a new interest as well.
Another part of my family are from Salem, Trefeurig in Llanbadarn Fawr: one young man Hugh Garfield Jones emigrated to the USA at the age of 17 aboard the Mauretania in 1913.
He then returned in 1919 for a visit on the Baltic sailing from New York to Liverpool in January 1919 and gave his onward address as 36 Dorvil Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog.
This confused me greatly until I found out that a certain Miss E Owen was also on board the ship, returning from Canada (apparently working as a housekeeper over there). Her destination was also Blaenau Ffestiniog.
I wonder if these two Welsh people decided to travel down through Wales together from Liverpool, calling off at Miss Owen's house and then Hugh going onwards towards Aberystwyth?
I dare say I shall never find out.
I attach he 1919 Baltic passenger list for you to see: they are on the same page although this could just be coincidence of course.
Please keep up the good work. It's obviously a labour of love but it is a fascinating website.Diolch yn fawr iawn i chi.
Sheila

The 1901 census for 36 Dorvil Street shows a Hugh Owen and his family living at the address mentioned.

The Baltic, one of the White Star Steamship Line, left New York and arrived at Liverpool on the 9th January 1919. Hugh and Miss Owen travelled Third Class. Hugh, aged 23, gave his destination as 36 Dorvil Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog and stated that Wales was his permanent country of residence, his last country of residency being the U.S.A.

S. S. Baltic

Miss E. Owen, aged 30, gave her destination as Bl. Ffestiniog, she was a Housekeeper, Wales was her permanent country of residence, her last country of residency being Canada.

Her age confirms that Miss E. Owen is not one of the daughters listed in the 1901 census, but she may be related to the family, accepting of course that Evans is quite a popular Welsh surname.

Was Hugh related to the Owen family, and were they indeed still at 36 Dorvil Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog in 1919, when Hugh arrived there?

The interesting point, as Sheila asks is would the two people have travelled together to Blaenau, possibly having met on The Baltic?

If anyone can please throw any light on this, Shelia can be contacted viamail@penmon.org KD .

Robert Owen Jones
born 1870, Llanrwst

Robert was born around 1870 in Llanrwst. His father Henry, who appears to have been born in Capel Garmon, had moved to Ffestiniog by the time Robert was 1, when they lived in New Street.
There is probably an error by the enumerator with Henry and Jane's ages, at the 1871 census.

New Street, Ffestiniog, Census 1871

H. Jones, 60 (40?) quarryman, born Denbighshire
Jane Jones, 61, (41?) wife, born Denbighshire
Children; twins E. Jones and Anne Jones both 8,Robert O Jones, 1,all born Llanrwst

The family had moved to Freeman Terrace by 1881, daughter Anne having left home.

Freeman Terrace, Ffestiniog, Census 1881

Henry Jones, 49, labourer, Jane Jones, wife 51.
Children;Robert O. Jones 11, scholar, Elizabeth, 18 dressmaker.
All were born in Denbighshire
John Roberts, 49, widower, boarder, general labourer, born Liverpool, Josiah Price, 31, general labourer, born Merionethshire

Daughter Anne has returned home by 1891.

10 Newborough Street, Ffestiniog Census 1891

Henry Jones, 60, labourer, born Capel Garmon, Jane, wife 60, born Pentrevoelas.
Single twin daughters Elizabeth and Anne, both dressmakers, 28,Robert O. Jones, 21, labourer, all born Llanrwst.
David Hughes, 24, lodger, labourer, Edward Morris, 25, lodger, labourer

14 Newborough Street, Ffestiniog Census 1901

Henry Jones, 70, was still working as a labourer, born Capel Garmon, Jane, his wife is recorded as 74, born Pentrevoelas.
Single twin daughter Elizabeth was a dressmaker working at home on her own account, 28,.
Henry's nephew David Jones, 8, born in Ffestiniog was also living with the family.

Robert had left home, got married and had children by 1901.

101 High Street, Ffestiniog, Census 1901

Robert O. Jones, 31, slate quarry labourer, born Llanrwst,
Jane M. Jones, 25, wife, Catherine, 7 Annie 4, Lizzie 7 months, all born Ffestiniog.

I would be pleased to hear from anyone who can help me with the history of this family, as they have a similar connection to mine, through Capel Garmon, Llanrwst and Ffestiniog. mail@penmon.org KD

Blaenau Higher Grade School student,
Edward Owen Wynne Morris,
witnesses relative's death on Bala Lake

John Jones of Perth, Western Australia writes;
I have a link to Blaenau Ffestiniog regarding a former student of the Higher Grade School, around 1890 - 1896. The student was Edward Owen Wynne Morris, 1883 - 1915. He was my cousin twice removed. Born in Llangower.
He was present, as a small child when my great grandfather John Jones from Penlan farm Bala drowned in Llyn Tegid during the Big Freeze 1895.

North Wales Chronicle of the 16th February 1895 shows -

Llanycil Church

Bala Lake was thronged with skaters on Monday. A sad fatality occurred in the evening. John Jones, Penlan, was crossing the lake towards the old landing-stage, near Llanycil Church, in company with a nephew, ten years of age, when he suddenly fell into a cold spring about 100 yards from land. He went under the ice at once. The boy screamed, but was unheard for a long time. Darkness then intervened and all search had to be abandoned. About eight o'clock on Tuesday morning the body was found under the ice near the place where he fell, and was taken to the mortuary. An inquest was held by Mr. W.R. Davies, coroner for Merionethshire, when a verdict of "accidentally drowned" was returned.

Edward's family moved around often, I think it was difficult finding work in those days.

Edward's father, Richard Morris, was a butcher in Ffestiniog for a while - around 1881. They lived at Lord Street during their time in Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Edward had brothers and sisters, so some of his siblings may have gone to the school in Ffestiniog. They were John Wynne, Magdalen Alice, Maggie, Richard Wynne, Tegid Wynne, Meirion Wynne.

Edward joined the Monmouth Yeomanry (Welch Fusiliers) and served as an Imperial Guard at Buckingham Palace. He later migrated to New South Wales, Australia in 1911 and eventually joined the Australian Imperial Force when war broke out. He died in Gallipoli in 1915 when a shell buried him.
A photo appeared of Edward in the Sydney Morning Herald after his death.

MORRIS, EDWARD OWEN WYNNE
Rugivnys Roll of Honour

Edward Owen Wynne Morris, Private, No. 1501, A Coy., 3rd Battn. Australian Imperial Force, 2nd son of Richard Morris, of Greenbank Terrace, Denbigh, Clerk of Works of Llandyrnog Water Scheme, now Foreman Kinmel Military Camp, by his wife Susannah (Alwen Tegid), daughter of the late John Roberts of Gwernbrechdwrn, Parish of Llandderfel.
Born Llangower, Bala, county of Merioneth on the 16th April, 1882.
Educated at Public School and Higher Grade School, Blaennau Ffestiniog.

He was for three years a Trooper in the Montgomeryshire Imperial Yeomanry and formed one of the Guard of Honour to King Edward and Queen Alexandra, on the occasion of their visit to Radnorshire, to open the Birmingham Water Works in 1904.

He went to Australia about 1909, and was resident. Volunteered for Imperial Service on the outbreak of war, and joined the A.I.F. on the 13th August, 1914. Served in Egypt and at the Dardanelles, and was killed in action near Quinn's Post, Gallipoli on the 8th June 1915.
Two of his brothers were also in active service. He was unmarried

The Williams Family
Geufron Terrace

Received the following message from Loretta Houben, KD

Dear Ken,
Recently I've been interviewing my Dad, Jack Williams, who is 82 years old.
We've been going through his old photos and clippings, and the other night we discovered a newspaper clipping from 1917, along with a photo of his uncle, William Williams.
I decided to research online, and by entering the words "Blaenau Ffestinog" I happened upon your fantastic website.I poked around and found a link on your page to 'Hogia Stiniog'

From there I entered my great uncle's name, and found a page on him, with more clues.I entered the cemetery where he is buried into the Google Search engine, and discovered even more.
I am thrilled!!! I just had to email and let you know. We don't know very much about my Grandpa's side of the family.

Loretta continues;

Here is what I know so far:

My great grandparents.

Joseph Williams
born c 1854
and
Elizabeth Williams
(nee Roberts)
born c 1857

Joseph Williams was born in Llandegai, Caernarfon around 1854.

His wife Elizabeth Roberts, was born around 1857 in Portmadoc. They married before 1885.

In 1891, the family lived in Geufron Terrace.

1891 Geufron Terrace, Festiniog

Joseph Williams, 37, quarryman, born in Llandegai, Caernarfonshire, Elizabeth Williams wife 34, born Portmadoc. Children Elizabeth Ellen Williams, 6, John Griffith Williams 3 and Robert David Williams 1, were all born in Ffestiniog.

Sons John Griffith ('Jack'), Robert David ('Bob') and William Joseph ('Willie')

My grandfather.

John Griffith Williams
1888 - 1974

'Jack'

My Grandpa, John Griffith Williams, was born on the 17th February 1888, in Ffestiniog, Wales.

After 7 years of searching my Mom found my Grandpa's birth certificate!!!!
I'm just thrilled!

It confirms that Joseph and Elizabeth Williams at Geufron Terrace inFestiniog are indeed his parents.
He was born on Feb 17, 1888 in the district of Festiniog in the county ofMerioneth.His father was a slate miner.
The certificate was registered on March 14, 1888.

The copy my parents have was issued by David Jones on October 6, 1926.
The original copy is #15 in the register book of births #36.
In one column it states: "x The mark of Elizabeth Williams"

According to an income tax paper we have, my grandfather emigrated to Saskatchewan, Canada in 1910 and purchased a farm, but he was not good at farming.. He was married in 1919 to Nellie, whose maiden name we don't know.

Theyhad two sons, Harry in 1920, and Wallace in 1925.
His wife Nellie and son Harry died in 1925.

John re-married in 1928 to Alma May Palmer, from Cardiff, Wales, my Grandma.

Alma Mary's parents also tried farming and her mother died at 47 from tuberculosis. Her Dad gave up on prairie life and moved back to England where he remarried.

My father was born the next year in 1929, and in 1941 the family moved to Vancouver BC. My father has 6 siblings all still living.

My grandparents then came to Vancouver BC in 1941, 70 years ago this month.
My Grandpa died in 1974 when I was 14 so I barely remember him.
He was very quiet. No one talked much about their past, so to discover all this wealth of info in one evening is amazing.

Another clue I've found is contained in postcards.
One is written completely in Welsh without any date, from his cousin "Maria Williams" to "Mr. John G. Williams, 11 Dorvil Street, Blaenau Festiniog"

Top left is 'Chapel House' Bethel .

"Dear cousin. I'd better send a word or two to you hoping that you are well as I presently am. I received your postcard and thank you for it and I am sending this to you to say that I am a good girl as you were saying, that for me to be .
"He has commanded his angels for me.
"This briefly is from your cousin. Maria Williams. xxx."

Until last week I'd never heard of Blaenau Festiniog! I've looked on Google street view and seen the above home, and wonder if that's where John G Williams was born.

The other post card is written in English without a signature. It's a picture of Blurton Church near Longton, Staffordshire, with a little "x" by the church door.

Onthe back the writing says:
"This is a little church only just down the road from us and where our dear baby lies. Just by the side of the door. It's a very old fashioned church. xxxx"

There isn't any person it's addressed to. Where the address should be, my Grandma has written "Elener, Jack's sister's baby fell into a tub of hot water and died, in Wales" Would "Elener" (obviously spelled wrong) be the Ellen Roberts mentioned in the 1917 clipping? Or a different person?

My Dad's name is John Herbert Williams. He was born in Spalding Saskatchewan, Canada on July 1, 1929.

My great uncle
William Joseph Williams



Information kindly supplied by his great neice, Loretta Houben	William Joseph Williams 1898 - 1917 11th Battalion Royal Welch Fusiliers 14842

William Joseph Williams was born around 1898 and was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Williams, of Gaefron Terrace, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Brothers John Griffith Williams ('Jack'),
David ('Bob') Williams and
William Joseph Williams ('Willie')

According to the information from the Hogia Stiniog website where his regiment is listed, he was a private in the 11th Battalion of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, and he died of wounds on Feb 22, 1917, following action at Salonika, Greece.
This is confirmed with the newspaper clipping. That is posted on my blog too. He is buried in plot D 828 in the Karasouli Military Cemetery. He enlisted in Wrexham.

"Miss Ellen Roberts, 9 Dolgarregddu received the following letters. As previously notified by us, a little while back, Miss Roberts' nephew died whilst serving his country in Salonica, ie Private Willie Joseph William, R.W.F.
"It is obvious from the following letters that he was very well respected by his fellow soldiers and officers of his regiment. Feb 24 1917"

Dear Miss Roberts,
Before you receive this letter, you will have heard from the War Office, that your nephew, W. Williams, died on the 22nd instant from wounds received in action.

He was wounded in a patrol skirmish between our own and the German lines, and was hit with a bullet fired at very close quarters; the bullet passing out from the leg seems to have become twisted and maade a very bad wound in the leg. I believe the bone was broken, and a main artery severed.

He lingered on nearly a week, but passed away on the sixth day at the Casualty Clearing Hospital. I was out with your nephew and was with the party bringing him back to our lines - it was a rough journey, but he never uttered aa word of complaint, and hardly a groan.

He was what I call one of my old hands, and was in my platoon since I took command of it when we came on Active Service 18 months ago.

He was one of the best of all the glorious boys we have; very quiet and unasertive, but was yet a fine soldier, not once sick during all the long 18 months - punctual, ready, neat and brave.

For the last few months he had been in the Lewis Machine Gun Section of our Company, and was very keen on his important duties. I feel his death as a personal loss, for we who have been out all the time together were naturally drawn to each other, by the memories of what we have gone through.

Yours is the only address that I have, but I know your nephew used to write to his girl very faithfully.

Willie as a young boy

I didn't even know that WWI was fought in Greece! I don't know much about that war at all, as until this past week, I didn't really know who my great uncle William was, although I had seen the war medal that my Dad has.

William's Great War Medal

BRITISH PATHE
SALONIKA
NEWSREELS
(click here)

Karasouli Military Cemetery
(Commonwealth War Graves Commission
(Click here)

Plot D 828
Locate row where William is buried
(click here)

I am very grateful to Loretta Houben for sharing her family history with us..
If you can help her with her research,
Loretta can be contacted via
mail@penmon.org, KD

Why not visit Loretta's remarkable Blogs?

HOUSE OF HOUBEN
(Click here)

THE BLUE MANOIR
(Click here)

Blaenau Ffestiniog, Llan Ffestiniog,
Trawsfynydd and Tanygrisiau
featured in an excellent new football book,
by Mel Thomas

"The Football Coast" is a brief history of the Cambrian Coast League from 1905 to 1963 but also includes details of an earlier Cambrian League, formed in 1896, which did not survive.

Over the years familiar clubs from Pwllheli and Porthmadog to Aberystwyth competed in the league, as well as some more unusual names such as Cookes United, Tywyn Celtic, REME Tonfannau, 37th Heavy Anti-Aircraft and RAF Llanbedr.
Mel Thomas recounts the history of the Cambrian Coast League for the first time from its hesitant beginnings, through the FAW reorganisations of the leagues in the 1920s, to its sad demise in 1963. The league is still fondly remembered by many fans and ex-players and its closure left a gap that has never been adequately filled.

This A5 booklet is lavishly illustrated and includes league tables as well as a statistical section It is the first publication from the team behind the groundbreaking Welsh Football Data Archive ( www.wfda.co.uk ) and will be of considerable local interest as well as to soccer fans throughout Wales.

The book is available from Siop Llyfrau Yr Hen Bost, High Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3AA at £6 plus £1.26 postage and packing

For further details or enquiries contact Mel@soccerfilewales.com

I am particularly delighted at the publication of this book,
as my uncle, T. Glynne Davies in his early days,
worked for the Cambrian News and reported
on many of the games played in this league. KD

PENGWERN ARMS HOTEL
Ffestiniog

PENGWERN CYMUNEDOL
Click here to visit their website

A group of local people have formed to buy and re-open the Pengwern Hotel and to run it for the benefit of the community.
A public meeting was held at the Pengwern before it was shut to gauge support.
This was very successful with over 50 people turning up on the night and all were passionately in favour of re-opening. Many others were unable to attend but sent in messages of support.
At this meeting a committee was voted in to continue with the work of investigating ways of raising the funds to buy, renovate and run the Pengwern as a community-based enterprise.

THE CENSUS RECORDS OF
THE PENGWERN ARMS, FESTINIOG

1841 saw Martha Owens aged 53, Inn Keeper at The Pengwern Arms Hotel. This census did not give the relationships of people to each other. Also living there were John Baines, 54, Ellen Jones 30, a housemaid, Ellen Penny, 24 a waitress. Phoebe Davies 27, Jane Jones 18 and Ellen Davies 68 were all servants. John Roberts 26 was a postillion, Ellis Jones 14, cared for boots, Ellis Cadwaladr 20, was a labourer, Sup. Lawrence Will, 25 was of independant means, Ias. Meyrick 40, a merchant, Francis Daubery 25, was in the Navy. Henry Valle was 40, with no occupation recorded, Henrietta Valle 25, Eliza Ada Valle 5, Laura Emily Valle was 11 months, and Mary Case, 24 was a Nurse.

Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

David Cox (1783-1859).
In 1805 he made his first of many trips to Wales.From 1844 until 1856 he spent summers at Betws y Coed.
Cox was considered one of the prominent figures of British watercolour painting and at the time was rivalled only by John Constable

Martha Owens, unmarried, is again recorded as the Inn Keeper of the Pengwern Arms in 1851, aged 62. She was born in Festiniog. Living with her was her niece Martha Evans, 13, born in Beddgelert. Employed at the Arms as housemaid servants were Ellen Morris, 24, born in Llanelltyd and Catherine Jones, 25, born in Llanfrothen. John Roberts 26 of Abersoch and Griffith Williams 50 of Dolwyddelen were farm servants. Robert Green 42 was a driver born in Pentrfoelas.
Lodging at the Arms was Slate Quarry Agent, Owen Madrin 56, born in Amlwch. Recorded as visitors were, Henry Jones 40, David Jones 18, both born in Llanllechid and quarrymen. John Parry Morgan, 45 and widowed, a Clergyman from Newcastle was also a visitor, with his children Jane Parry Morgan 7, John Parry Morgan, 8, William Christmas Morgan 6 and Edwin Price Morgan 4. Son John Parry Morgan was born in Caernfon and his siblings in Festiniog. Elizabeth Roberts, 14 of Montgomery was their nurse.

WILD WALES - GEORGE BORROW
The author visits Pengwern Arms in 1854
Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

I went to the inn, a large old-fashioned house standing near the church; the mistress of it was a queer-looking old woman, antiquated in her dress and rather blunt in her manner. Of her, after ordering dinner, I made inquiries respecting the chair of Rhys Goch, but she said that she had never heard of such a thing, and after glancing at me askew, for a moment, with a curiously- formed left eye which she had, went away muttering chair, chair; leaving me in a large and rather dreary parlour, to which she had shown me.

I felt very fatigued, rather I believe from that unlucky short cut than from the length of the way, for I had not come more than eighteen miles. Drawing a chair towards a table I sat down, and placing my elbows upon the board I leaned my face upon my upturned hands, and presently fell into a sweet sleep, from which I awoke exceedingly refreshed just as a maid opened the room door to lay the cloth.

Martha Owens, died on the 27th December 1859, aged 78. She lies in her grave, only a few yards from the front door of the Pengwern Arms, in St Michaels cemetery.

Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

Underneath are also deposited the mortal remains of Martha Owens of the Pengwern Arms Hotel, Ffestiniog, who died on the 27th day of December 1859 in the 78th year of her age.

She conducted the Pengwern Arms Hotel for about the space of 40 Years with credit to herself and her friends and satisfaction to all.

When the ear heard me, then it blessed me;
And when the eye saw me, it gave witness to me;
Because I delivered the poor that cried, and the
Fatherless and him that had no one to help him.
Job XXX1X 11. 12

Martha Evans, now 24, Mary Owen's niece, who lived there ten years earlier, became the 'Hotel' Keeper of Pengwern Arms by 1861, following the latter's death. Martha's brother John 17, was now living there. Both were born in Beddgelert.
Barmaid at the The Arms was Maria Loisa Williams 22 of Merioneth, Winifred Ellis 20 of Pwllheli, was a waitress, Jane Jones 20 of Festiniog, a cook and Elias Ellis 24, of Trawsfynydd, a driver.

Interestingly, in 1871, Mary Humphreys 57 and unmarried was at Pengwern Arms as Hotel Keeper and farmer, born in Caernarfon. Her barmaid was Ellin Owen 23 of Festiniog. Lodging there was widower and commercial traveller John D. Evans, 54 of Beddgelert.
The servants consisted of Griffith Parry, 62, farm bailiff, of Caernarfon, labourers Robert Pierce 59, of Clynog, William Williams 35 of Caernarfon. Hostler was George Jones 30 of Liverpool, housemaid Ellen Hughes 35 was from Bangor, cook Jane Hughes 31 and waitress Jane Roberts 30 were both from Caernarfon, laundry maid Hannah Roberts 26 was from Llanrwst , and waitresses Ellen Jones 21 and Dinah Roberts 20 were both born in Festiniog.

In the same year, 1871, a certain William Cadwaladr Jones was Hotel Keeper at The Commercial Hotel. William was 40, his wife Elizabeth was 23, and their baby daughter Ann E, just 1 month old. Employed by them were cook Alice Evans, 30, waitress Hannah Thomas 41 and general servant John Edwards, 18.
A decade later, William would find himself the Hotel Proprietor of The Pengwern Arms.

William Cadwaladr Jones was 53 when the census was recorded in 1881 he was the hotel proprietor at The Pengwern Arms. His wife Elizabeth was 33 and their family consisted of Anne E. Jones, 10, Laura I. Jones 8, Elizabeth Jones 6, William C. Jones 3, Robert D. Jones 1 and 3 month old John I. Jones. Wife Elizabeth was born in Llanddwyn, but the rest of the family were Festiniog born. Laura Davies, Elizabeth's widowed mother aged 71, and born in Betws y Coed was also living with the family.
Working at The Pengwern Arms were Mary I. Davies 26, barmaid born in Flint, and servants Ann Davies, 40, of Portmadog, Eliza Owen 19, of Harlech Jane Evans, 19, of Llansantffraid. Robert Price, 68 coach driver was born in Clynog. Ostler Morris Jones aged 31 was widowed and born in Denbigh.
Edward R. Backill, a commercial traveller aged 48 of Plymouth, was staying there on census night.

William C. Jones, 62, is recorded as a farmer in addition to being a Hotel Keeper at Pengwern Arms in 1891. William's wife Elizabeth, was not at home on census night. Daughter Annie was 20, Laura 18, and son John was 10.
Employed as domestic servants were Ellen Williams 25, Penrhyn born, Dora Owens 17, Criccieth born, Maggie Edmunds 21, Bala born and Hannah Jones 20, Capel Curig born.

PENGWERN ARMS HOTEL

Family and
Commercial House
FESTINIOG
NORTH WALES

WINES AND SPIRITS
SUPERIOR QUALITY
W.C. Jones Proprietor

Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

Spacious Coffee Room and Good Private Rooms

Posting in all its Branches
Safe Drivers and Guides

Electric Light throughout
Coaching

William Cadwaladr Jones died on the 10th July 1892.

Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

Following the death of her husband, Elizabeth Jones, 54, became Hotel Keeper, and as such, is recorded in 1901. Hotele Keeper has the annotation 'Pub' alongside it. Daughters Anne E. was 30, Laura J 28 and son William C. 23, recorded as a farmer, were all still single and living at home.
Maentwrog born Winifred A. Williams 23, was barmaid, Jane Evans 23 was waitress, Ellin Ann Edwards 23 was cook, both in Festiniog and John Thomas 33, of Bala was the groom.

Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

This card shows E(lizabeth) Jones, William's widow as proprietress of the Pengwern Arms Hotel.

Elizabeth Jones died on the 18th July 1917, aged 70.

Courtesy of Penwern Cymunedol

North Wales
Complete Edition
WARD LOCK & CO'S
Tourist Handbook
PENGWERN ARMS, FESTINIOG
Hotels and Tariffs
(Circa 1925)

Rooms; Single, 4/- Double 6/-
Breakfast; 3/-
Lunch; 3/-
Dinner; 4/6
Boarding terms; from 12/6 per day

R.A.C.Guide and Handbook
Appointed Hotel
Good food, cleanliness and courteous.
PENGWERN ARMS HOTEL
FESTINIOG
Prices Charged 1930

Bed and Breakfast 12/6
20 beds
Baths
Garage Accommodation

Can You Help Pengwern Cymunedol?

Pengwern Cymunedol ar keen to revive the history of
The Pengwern Arms Hotel.
If you have any information or photos you would like to share relating to the hotel, they can be contacted
via mail@penmon.org or via their website.
Details are at the top of this feature.

WYNNES ARMS
Manod

1871 Census, Wynnes Hotel.
David Williams, aged 39, born in Ffestiniog was the hotel keeper, with his wife Anne, 35, born in Ybytty. Their three children were William W, 3, Alice, 2 and Mary, 8 months old, all born in Ffestiniog.
Margaret Roberts 19 of Maentwrog was a general servant their, Gwen Pugh, 16 of Penrhyn was a nurse and Elizabeth Ellis, 34, a dressmaker born in Conway, was visiting the family.

1881 Census. Wynnes Arms.
David Williams 54 was recorded as an Inn keeper, with wife Anne, 44. William was 13, Alice 11 and Mary 10.
Gwen Pugh, 24 was still in their employment as a general servant, aged 24.

1891 Census. Wynnes Arms
David Williams, Inn Keeper was 60, wife Anne was 54. Daughters Alice 21 and Mary 20, were both still living at home.

1901 Census. Wynnes Arms
David Williams was recorded as 74, wife Anne was 64. Son William 33 had returned home, Mary was 30.
Kate M. Jones 21 and Mary Jones 20, were domestic servants.

WILLIAM EWART GLADSTONE
Liberal Prime Minister 1868-1874, 1880-1885, 1892-1894
William Gladstone had a home in Hawarden, North Wales and kept a diary.
Here are some September 1855 entries.

Monday 10th. Started at 3.25 for Llanrwst 16 miles over the hills: a beautiful walk: took 3 hours 30 minutes reached at dusk..... Four miles with a self sufficient but straightforward and intelligent pedlar; most warlike. Read two short books of Odyssey in evening. Eagles Inn, good eating: not dear: not clean.

Tuesday 11th. Off with Willy at 9: forty miles (one astray) to Betws y Coed, Penmachno, Festiniog, Trawsfynnydd and Dolgelly. The first eight and last ten miles lovely....Read Odyssey - Inn Golden Lion; Good.

Wednesday 12th. After a good night we gave up Machynlleth, but tried Cader Idris; saw a grand precipice and beautiful views but clouds prevented our reaching the top. We went in the afternoon down to Barmouth where we found the Inn excellent. Read Odyssey.

JOHN RUSKIN 1876

Ruskin, who was a critic and explainer of art, architecture and literature wrote about his visit to Wales.
My first sight of bolder scenery was in Wales; and I have written, - more than it would be wise to print - about the drive from Hereford to Rhaiadr, under Plynlimmon to Pont-y-Monach; the joy of a walk with my father in the Sunday afternoon towards Hafod, dashed only with some alarmed sense of the sin of being so happy among the hills, instead of writing out a sermon at home; - my father's presence and countenance not wholly comforting me, for we both of us had alike a subdued consciousness of being profane and rebellious characters, compared to my mother.
From Pont-y-Mynach we went north, gathering pebbles on the beach at Aberystwyth, and getting up Cader Idris with help of ponies; - it remained, and rightly, for many a year after, a king of mountains to me. Followed Harlech and its sands, Festiniog, the pass of Aberglaslyn, and marvel of Menai Straits and Bridge. .

Y RHEDEGYDD

Dydd Iau Hydref 23 1947

This local paper contained an obituary for my great aunt
Mary (Poppy) Jenkins.
Here are some extracts from that paper.

Businesses advertising in
Y Rhedegydd
in 1947

CAMBRIAN FURNISHING STORES
51 High Street Blaenau Ffestiniog (Tel 82)

BRADLEYS (Chester) Ltd
Established 1878
5, Church Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

R.O. EVANS
Auctioneer and Furniture Dealer
36, Jones Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog.

YOUR OPTICIAN
R JONES EDWARDS
M.P.S. F.N.A.O. F.I.O.
Qualified Ophthalmic Optician
26 HIGH STREET, BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
National Health Insurance
Dispensing Chemist
Thursdays at BALA

R. & G. MORRIS
Saron
FFESTINIOG
Men's overcoats, D.B., Navy Melton,
45/3, 14 coupons
S.B. Belted Smart Tweeds, from £4/5/8
18 coupons
Sports Coats from 39/9, 13 coupons.
See our range of Aquatite Raincoats in
smart Belted Styles, made in shot gaberdine.
Try us for your next Made to Measure suit.
Delivery 10 - 12 weeks

EVENTS

CELEBRITY CONCERT
at the
FORUM, BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9th 1947

JANET HOWE, Mezzo Soprano
WALTER MIDGELEY, Tenor
GEORGE HANCOC, Baritone
THE MOELWYN LADIES CHOIR

Accompanist; KATIE PLEMING, L.R.A.M.
Compere; LEWYS MOELWYN
Chairman; Lt.-Col. WILLIAM ELLIS

Doors open at 7.30 pm To commence at 8 pm
Tickets : 5/- (Reserved) ; 2/6
Proceeds in aid of the Bristish Legion Benevolent Fund
Tickets now on Sale at the FORUM

BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
JERUSALEM - Cynhelir rihyrsal nos Fercher am 7 o'r gloch yng nghapel Jerusalem er paratoi gogyfer y recordio gan y B.B.C. o'r canu cynulleidfaol nos Iau am 7.30 o'r gloch.

Blaenau Ffestiniog Canine Society
GRAND
DOG SHOW
to be held at the
EMPIRE CINEMA
on
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH 1947
Prize money; 10/-, 6/-, 3/-
Numerous Specials and Two Cups to be won.
Judging commences at 2pm
Judge
MAJOR J. H. WRIGHT, M.R.C.V.S., O.B.E.
Apply for Schedule to Mr. R.G. Jones
Hafod, The Square, Blaenau Ffestiniog
Entries close on Nov. 1, 1947

MEETINGS

BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
Football Supporters Club
A
MEETING
of the above Club
will be held at the
EMPIRE
NEXT THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1947
AT 6.30 pm

Argraffwyd a chyhoeddwyd (Y Rhedegydd) gan J.D. Davies a'i gwmni,
Swyddfa'r Rhedegydd, Blaenau Ffestiniog. Telephone 71.